Evaluation of an intervention directed at the modification of memory beliefs in older adults

In clinical practice, memory interventions often aim to improve negative beliefs and expectations about memory in the elderly. The (implicit or explicit) assumption is often that changing beliefs and expectations about memory does not only improve subjective memory judgments, but leads to improved memory performance as well. Surprisingly few studies, however, have evaluated these objectives effects. The present study describes an intervention directed at reducing negative stereotypes and worries about memory. Both subjective and objective effects were assessed in an intervention group (N = 22, mean age 63 years) and compared to a no-treatment control group (N = 23, mean age 61 years). Subjects were very satisfied with the effect of the intervention. The intervention had a positive effect on subjective reports on knowledge and worries about forgetfulness. The positive subjective effects, however, were not accompanied by an improved performance on memory tests. Age and initial memory performance were not related to objective intervention effects. Subjective effects of the intervention were related to initial memory performance: the strongest effects were found for subjects who initially experienced most memory problems.