Remembering PINs in Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Michael K. Gardner, Robert D. Hill, Christopher A. Was
Primary Institution: University of Utah
Hypothesis
Can a motor skill learning intervention improve memory for personal identification numbers (PINs) in older adults compared to a control group?
Conclusion
The study found that older adults with mild cognitive impairment performed significantly worse in remembering PINs compared to younger adults and older adults without cognitive impairment.
Supporting Evidence
- Younger participants were less error prone and faster than older participants.
- Training condition had no significant effect on memory performance.
- Older adults with mild cognitive impairment showed significantly poorer performance than healthy older adults.
Takeaway
This study tried to help older people remember their PINs better by teaching them a new skill, but it didn't work as well as hoped, especially for those with memory problems.
Methodology
Participants were randomly assigned to a motor skill training group or a control group, receiving training over three days and tested immediately, four days, and seven days later.
Potential Biases
Potential selection bias in recruiting participants from specific agencies may affect the generalizability of the results.
Limitations
The study's findings may not generalize to all older adults, and the small sample size for the MCI group limits the conclusions that can be drawn.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 55 older adults aged 61 to 92 and 37 younger adults aged 18 to 40, with a mix of genders and educational backgrounds.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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