title: Facilitating change in health-related behaviors and intentions: a randomized controlled trial of a multidimensional memory program for older adults.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Many older adults are concerned about memory changes with age and consequently seek ways to optimize their memory function. Memory programs are known to be variably effective in improving memory knowledge, other aspects of metamemory, and/or objective memory, but little is known about their impact on implementing and sustaining lifestyle and healthcare-seeking intentions and behaviors.
  
  
  METHODS
  We evaluated a multidimensional, evidence-based intervention, the Memory and Aging Program, that provides education about memory and memory change, training in the use of practical memory strategies, and support for implementation of healthy lifestyle behavior changes. In a randomized controlled trial, 42 healthy older adults participated in a program (n = 21) or a waitlist control (n = 21) group.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Relative to the control group, participants in the program implemented more healthy lifestyle behaviors by the end of the program and maintained these changes 1 month later. Similarly, program participants reported a decreased intention to seek unnecessary medical attention for their memory immediately after the program and 1 month later.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Findings support the use of multidimensional memory programs to promote healthy lifestyles and influence healthcare-seeking behaviors. Discussion focuses on implications of these changes for maximizing cognitive health and minimizing impact on healthcare resources.
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, Canada.
authors.forename: Melanie A
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Wiegand
authors.forename: Angela K
authors.initials: AK
authors.lastname: Troyer
authors.forename: Christina
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Gojmerac
authors.forename: Kelly J
authors.initials: KJ
authors.lastname: Murphy
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000375:Aging / Q000523:psychology*; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D016022:Case-Control Studies; D005260:Female; D015438:Health Behavior; D006801:Humans; D033182:Intention; D008019:Life Style; D008297:Male; D008568:Memory; D008875:Middle Aged; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D016730:Program Development; D015397:Program Evaluation; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires