Perceived Memory Failures and Cognitive Support in Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Sharma Anisha, Reese-Melancon Celinda, Margrett Jennifer, Wyatt Riley, Harrington Erin, Byrd-Craven Jennifer, Turner Rachael, Rendell Peter
Primary Institution: Oklahoma State University
Hypothesis
Perceptions of a partner’s everyday prospective memory forgetfulness are related to the perceived cognitive support one offers the partner.
Conclusion
Older adults who perceive greater memory forgetting in their partners tend to provide more cognitive support.
Supporting Evidence
- Participants who perceived greater PM forgetting in their partner reported providing more help to them.
- Older adults reported providing more assistance to their partners.
- Biological sex and one’s own forgetfulness were significant predictors of perceived support.
Takeaway
When older people think their partner forgets things, they try to help them more. Men also tend to get more help than women.
Methodology
Participants completed self and proxy versions of the Prospective and Retrospective Memory Questionnaire and a measure of self-reported collaborative prospective memory.
Participant Demographics
Middle-aged and older married individuals, average age 64.51 years, age range 40–88 years.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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