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Centenarians: their memories and future ambitions
S B Merriam1, P Martin, G Adkins
1University of Georgia, College of Education, Athens 30602, USA.
International Journal of Aging & Human Development
|January 1, 1995
Summary
This study replicated a 1967 investigation into centenarians' past memories and future ambitions. Unlike the original findings, this research found no significant link between recalling past events and future conception in older adults.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Psychology
Background:
- Research on memory recall and psychological well-being in aging is scattered.
- Previous studies on centenarians' past memories and future ambitions lack conclusive findings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To replicate the 1967 Costa and Kastenbaum study.
- To investigate the relationship between past memory recall and future ambitions in centenarians using Georgia Centenarian Study data.
Main Methods:
- Replicated Costa and Kastenbaum's 1967 study methodology.
- Surveyed 97 centenarians and 189 individuals aged 60 and 80.
- Administered the same four questions regarding past memories and future ambitions.
Main Results:
- No significant relationship was found between recalling three types of past events and conceiving the future.
- Contradicted the findings of the original Costa and Kastenbaum study.
Conclusions:
- The ability to recall past events may not be significantly linked to future outlook in centenarians.
- Further research is needed to understand the complex relationship between aging, memory, and future orientation.