Understanding Memory and Aging in Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Harris Steven, Gehling Jacklyn, Marx Hannah, Dhaliwal Ravneet, Robertson Frank, Chenoweth Claudia Jacova
Primary Institution: Pacific University
Hypothesis
This study sought to explore perceptions of subjective cognition and aging among a national sample of community-dwelling older adults.
Conclusion
The study found that perceptions of health significantly influence subjective memory complaints and subjective age among older adults.
Supporting Evidence
- The sample reported a low burden of memory complaints.
- Participants felt younger than their chronological age.
- Better health ratings predicted lower memory complaints.
Takeaway
Older people often feel younger than they are and think they have fewer memory problems than they actually do, and feeling healthier can make them feel even better about their memory.
Methodology
The study used hierarchical regression analyses to evaluate relationships between subjective cognition measures and aging.
Participant Demographics
Community-dwelling older adults, average age 73.8, average education 14.9 years, 52% female.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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