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Participants could win one of five £50 Love2shop vouchers
Over-60s needed for memory study
People aged over 60 who suffer minor memory problems are needed for a new study at the University of Exeter.
Memory decline is common as people age and – although it usually isn’t a sign of serious medical issues – many people find it stressful and worrying.
Exeter researchers are trying to understand the factors that influence whether people experience worry or distress when they have memory lapses.
The results could help identify ways to help people who experience lapses but do not have a diagnosable memory impairment.
“This is an exciting project that breaks new ground by investigating psychological factors that haven’t previously been studied in relation to memory lapses,” said lead researcher Harriet Toop.
“We hope that it will enable us to identify new interventions to help people who worry about memory changes as they age.”
Researchers are currently looking for participants aged 60 years or older who have some personal experience of memory lapses (no matter how infrequent).
It will take no more than one hour, and all participants will be entered into a prize draw to win one of five £50 Love2shop vouchers.
The research usually takes place at the University of Exeter, but it is also possible to arrange to meet in a more convenient location if travel to the university is difficult.
To find out more, email Harriet Toop hjt210@exeter.ac.uk or call 07986 939738.
Top tips from the National Institute on Aging to help keep memory sharp:
- Be physically active – whether that’s a brisk walk or even doing household chores. Aim to move about 30 minutes on most days.
- Get enough sleep – most adults need seven to eight hours of sleep each night.
- Keep your mind active – through activities such as reading, playing games or learning a new skill or hobby.
- Eat a healthy diet – consisting of fruits and vegetables; whole grains; lean meats, fish and poultry; and low-fat or non-fat dairy products.
Date: 26 January 2018