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A randomized clinical trial of a writing workshop intervention to improve autobiographical memory and well‐being in older adults
Author(s) -
de Medeiros Kate,
Mosby Amanda,
Hanley Kathryn B.,
Pedraza Maria Suarez,
Brandt Jason
Publication year - 2011
Publication title -
international journal of geriatric psychiatry
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.28
H-Index - 129
eISSN - 1099-1166
pISSN - 0885-6230
DOI - 10.1002/gps.2605
Subject(s) - randomized controlled trial , intervention (counseling) , psychology , well being , autobiographical memory , clinical trial , gerontology , clinical psychology , medline , psychotherapist , medicine , psychiatry , cognition , political science , law
Background Despite much research on methods to improve new learning and memory in old age, there is virtually no literature on the improvement of autobiographical memory (AM). The present study assessed the effectiveness of a structured autobiographical writing workshop for improving AM, mood and self‐concept in older adults. Methods Fifty‐one nondemented older adults (67–96 years) participated. AM was assessed with the Autobiographical Memory Interview (AMI) and the Remote Memory Word Association Task (RMWAT). After completing baseline (BL) testing, participants were randomized to a structured autobiographical writing workshop, a reminiscence group (active control condition) or a no‐treatment control group. Follow‐up testing was completed at 8 and 34 weeks after BL. Results Repeated measures ANOVAs failed to reveal a group‐by‐time interaction for any of the autobiographical memory (AM) measures. Across groups, there was a decrease in number of mid‐ and late‐life events reported (on the AMI), and memories tended to be less detailed (on the RMWAT) although more pleasant memories were reported with repeated testing. Mood remained unchanged; ratings of self‐concept improved across all groups. Conclusions This is the first study of its kind to use a randomized group design to test an intervention for AM in older adults. In general, our specific intervention was ineffective for increasing recall from one's life story, mood or self‐concept. Methodological limitations and suggestions for future investigation are discussed. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.