CD-Improving Older Persons Intentional Memory Skills

We will apply Compact Disc- interactive (CD-i) technology to improve prospective memory skills of tminded aged concerned with forgetfulness in remembering and executing intended actions or activitiesmedications on time and keeping scheduled appointments. Prospective task failures are especially upsThe skill-development program will equip older adults with effective strategies for executing intendalleviating anxiety and embarrassment associated with such failures. Engaging entertaining TV-basedshould greatly enhance outcomes over passive video tapes or printed materials for intentional memorybehavior-change programs. This Phase I project will develop and field test a prototype CD-i called "to demonstrate increases in ability to remember and execute intended actions when either or both intstrategies (e.g. visual imagery and association for remembering intentions) and external aids (physior written notes) are utilized. Phase I aims are to 1) develop a plan, design document and functionalimited-scope prototype disc; 2) produce a prototype CD-i disc demonstrating how to use examples ofexternal aids for remembering scheduled events (taking medicine or keeping appointments); 3) field tefficacy. Phase II will develop "BEST INTENTIONS" fully to meet a wide variety of everyday activitieprospective remembering. Philips interactive Media has agreed to co-fund the distribution of "BEST IPhase III.