Neurological Changes With a Memory Self-efficacy Training Protocol

Overview

Confidence in one's ability to accomplish a task, more formally known as self-efficacy, is an important psychological variable that can influence how the investigators perform on various tasks. Previous studies have shown that self-efficacy is a modifiable trait that can be improved and bolstered with training and practice. More importantly for this study, memory self-efficacy has been shown to be modifiable for older adults, consequently improving their performance on memory tasks. While there is evidence to support the importance of memory self-efficacy for successful memory performance in older adults, the underlying neurological changes that accompany these performance changes have not been explored. The goal of this study is to examine the changes in brain activity before and after a memory self-efficacy training program to better understand the mechanisms of both memory and self-efficacy.

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Subjective memory complaints within past 5 years
2. Objective memory impairment below age norms on standardized cognitive testing
3. Score below 25 on Montreal Cognitive Assessment
4. Scores 1.5 standard deviations below age norms on memory testing
5. Unimpaired performance in Activities of Daily Living
6. Intact general cognition
7. Fluently read, write and speak English
8. Right handed

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Co-morbidity that would impact cognition (depression, anxiety, stroke)
2. Prior diagnosis of dementia of any type
3. Use of prescription or recreational drug use that would impact cognition (excluding hormone replacement therapy)
4. Uncorrected visual or auditory deficits/impairments
5. Current participation in alternate study