Is poor memory performance and errors truly all in the mind?
A current study on the influence of negative age-related stereotypes held by older adults was published in Psychological Science wherein individuals were tested to see whether their ability to execute an exercise were directly related to previously held beliefs, or genuine inability.
During the study, two groups of adults (consisting of both younger and older individuals) were presented with the same test. One group was given the impression it was an outright memory test, while the other understood it to be more of a language exercise. Results showed the group that believed were completing a memory test had more consistent prevalence of memory errors and lower performance of the older adults in that group than in the other group.
At InTouchLink, we understand the importance of fostering a sense of independence and mental acuity in the seniors' community. In this day and age, it is even more imperative to provide opportunities to elders to stay in touch with their loved ones and the world around them by developing (and making available) simple, easy-to-use computers for seniors. The InTouchLink software and communications system (for seniors’ communities) allows for simple email and computer basics.
Further information about the new study Cognitive Aging and Memory Lab at Tufts University can be read online at: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/237202.php.
