McDougall, G.J., Jr. (2001). Memory improvement program for elderly cancer survivors. Geriatric Nursing, 22(4), 185–190.
The study was conducted to determine the effect of a rehabilitative intervention on cognitive function, depression, and functioning.
The study framework included two intervention groups and one wait-list control group. Participants were randomized into intervention group 1 (receiving eight classes and a memory book) or the wait-list control group (Group 3). Wait-list control group participants were further randomized into intervention group 2 (receiving only the memory book) or group 3.
Intervention group 1 received a memory book and classes on day 1; intervention group 2 received a memory book on day 1 and began classes four weeks later. Wait-list control group participants received a memory book on day 1. Participants from intervention group 2 and the wait-list control group were placed in classes together based on location. All classes were identical.
The study took place at a comprehensive retirement community in the Midwest that included independent and assisted-living dwellers.
The study utilized a randomized, controlled trial.
Cancer survivors showed significant improvements after the intervention in
The cancer survivors scored higher on managing finances (p = 0.01). They had lower total IADL scores compared with the control group, and scored lower on baseline metamemory capacity, with an average score of 2.5 (p = 0.03). They showed worsening after the intervention on the RBMT Immediate Route test (p = 0.03) and the RBMT Delayed Route test (p = 0.0001). The cancer survivors were older, with an average age of 84.12 years (p = 0.02).
Significant associations were observed for the total sample between
There were no significant pre-test differences between groups on memory performance, memory self-efficacy scores, or MMSE scores. The total sample had a relatively high perception of health status and a low incidence of depression (13%).
Post-intervention tests showed no improvements in objective memory performance, despite reported improvements in subjective memory and memory self-efficacy.