ABSTRACT
To understand errors such as the repeated asking of questions, it is necessary to distinguish between intentional memory processes (recollection) and automatic influences of memory. This distinction is important because there is evidence that elderly adults possess preserved automatic abilities in the presence of significant recollection deficits. We investigate misleading effects of memory that can arise when automatic influences are unopposed by recollection. Standard memory tests fail to separate out contributions to performance of these two bases of responding that can lead to an overestimation of memory abilities in older adults. We describe an opposition procedure used to assess recollection deficits in elderly adults and discuss the advantages of such a procedure as a diagnostic tool. Finally, some preliminary results from a training procedure designed to rehabilitate recollection are presented. “Where are your kids now?” When visiting our aging parents some of us will be repeatedly asked a question like this. Most striking and frustrating is the repetition. The first asking of the question is viewed as concern for the children and is gladly answered. However, for our parent, it is as if asking the question and having it answered does not allow the question to be put to the side but, instead, increases the probability of its being repeated. Later askings of the question create annoyance that turns into concern as we realize the tragedy that our parents might be suffering. As the aging population continues to grow in society, it is inevitable that a significant proportion of people will suffer devastating effects on memory as a result of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Among the most obvious memory deficits that will be apparent is the repeated asking of questions.
