Modification of Subjective Cognitive Outcomes in Older Persons Through Memory Training

Abstract

Memory training is one way to achieve improvement in the quality of life and to prolong the independence of older people. Our contribution is a trial with one treatment group (N = 152) which concentrated on the effect of a basic memory training course available nationwide in the Czech Republic. The sample included nondemented, community-dwelling senior citizens. An important feature of the study is the inclusion of significant others who reported their observations. Results show that the training had a positive effect on the self-cognitions of the participants (rating of memory in general and ability to learn new things). The positive effect on memory and self-confidence in one’s own abilities was also reported by the significant others.