The relative success of a self-help and a group-based memory training program for older adults.
This study evaluates self-help and group-based memory training programs to test for their differential impact on memory beliefs and performance. Self-help participants used a manual that presented strategies for name, story, and list recall and practice exercises. Matched content from that same manual was presented by the trainer in 2-hr weekly group sessions for the group-based trainees. Relative to a wait-list control group, most memory measures showed significant gains for both self-help and group-based training, with no significant training condition differences, and these gains were maintained at follow-up. Belief measures showed that locus of control was significantly higher for the self-help and group-based training than the control group; memory self-efficacy significantly declined for controls, increased for group-trained participants, and remained constant in the self-help group. Self-efficacy change in a self-help group may require more opportunities for interacting with peers and/or an instructor emphasizing one's potential for memory change.
Hastings
Erin C
EC
Department of Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA. clh1230@ufl.edu
West
Robin L
RL
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000375:Aging / Q000523:psychology*; D003469:Culture; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006126:Group Processes; D006801:Humans; D007389:Internal-External Control; D008297:Male; D008370:Manuals as Topic; D011939:Mental Recall; D008875:Middle Aged; D010379:Peer Group; D011214:Practice, Psychological; D012648:Self Care / Q000523:psychology*; D020377:Self Efficacy; D012944:Social Support