MEMORY IN LATER LIFE: HOW NONAGENARIANS AVOID FORGETTING WHAT THEY WANT TO REMEMBER
2024

Memory Strategies in Nonagenarians

Sample size: 50 publication

Author Information

Author(s): Cherry Katie, Willis Matthew, Faucheux Gavin, Bernard Dominique, Barnes Mary, Reese-Melancon Celinda, Kim Sangkyu, Jazwinski S Michal

Primary Institution: Louisiana State University

Hypothesis

Older adults have specific memory management strategies that help them recall information they do not want to forget.

Conclusion

Nonagenarians use different memory techniques compared to younger adults, with a focus on association rather than imagery.

Supporting Evidence

  • Nonagenarians use environmental strategies like object placement and non-electronic aids to help with memory.
  • Younger adults tend to use imagery more than nonagenarians when trying to remember things.

Takeaway

Older people have special tricks to remember things, like placing objects in certain spots or using planners, and they often think differently about memory than younger people.

Methodology

Participants answered open-ended questions about their memory management strategies, and their responses were analyzed for recurring concepts.

Participant Demographics

50 nonagenarians and two younger reference groups aged 60-74 and 75-89.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/geroni/igae098.2655

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