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. 2015;22(1):25-41.
doi: 10.1080/13825585.2014.888391. Epub 2014 Mar 6.

Everyday experiences of memory problems and control: the adaptive role of selective optimization with compensation in the context of memory decline

Elizabeth A Hahn  1 , Margie E Lachman
Affiliations

Everyday experiences of memory problems and control: the adaptive role of selective optimization with compensation in the context of memory decline

Elizabeth A Hahn et al. Neuropsychol Dev Cogn B Aging Neuropsychol Cogn. 2015.

Abstract

The present study examined the role of long-term working memory decline in the relationship between everyday experiences of memory problems and perceived control, and we also considered whether the use of accommodative strategies [selective optimization with compensation (SOC)] would be adaptive. The study included Boston-area participants (n = 103) from the Midlife in the United States study (MIDUS) who completed two working memory assessments over 10 years and weekly diaries following Time 2. In adjusted multi-level analyses, greater memory decline and lower general perceived control were associated with more everyday memory problems. Low perceived control reported in a weekly diary was associated with more everyday memory problems among those with greater memory decline and low SOC strategy use (Est. = -0.28, SE= 0.13, p = .036). These results suggest that the use of SOC strategies in the context of declining memory may help to buffer the negative effects of low perceived control on everyday memory.

Keywords: SOC; control beliefs; everyday memory; memory decline; working memory.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Three-way interaction effect of SOC * control beliefs predicting memory as a function of working memory decline (n = 103)a,b Note. SD: standard deviation, SOC: selection, optimization, and compensation strategy use. aFor the purposes of illustrating interaction effects, Johnson-Neyman technique was used and 1 SD above and below the mean for memory decline and SOC strategy use was computed. However, continuous variables were used in the analyses. bAdjusted for age, gender, education, general perceived control, and initial working memory.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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