Improving Older Persons' Memory Skills With CD-I TV

This research and development project will apply Compact Disc-Interactive (CD-i) technology to improve memory retention skills of the able-minded aged who are concerned about signs of forgetfulness. An engaging entertaining TV-based technology, CD-i, should greatly enhance outcomes over passive video tapes or printed materials for educational and behavior-change programs for memory retention. This Phase I project will develop and field test a prototype CD-i called 'The Memory Works' to show how it increases the ability to recall items when greater attention is paid. Phase I aims are 1) develop a plan, design document and functional specs for a limited-scope prototype disc, 2) produce a prototype CD-i disc demonstrating how to remember names and faces, and 3) field test the concept for efficacy. Phase II intervention will fully develop 'The Memory Works' to meet a variety of memory retention skill needs for individual behavior change for a broader age range. It includes additional memory domains, improved mental vigor and normative memory changes; other training choices and preventive screenings from Phase I will result. Philips Interactive Media of America has agreed to co-fund and distribute 'The Memory Works' when published.