Efficacy of memory training interventions targeting metacognition for older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis

The role of metamemory and personality in episodic memory performance in older adults

“…Beside classical explanations for EM impairments in aging, including a decrease in the mental resources available for self-initiated deep encoding processes, or an associative processes deficit [1], there is also the impact of metacognitive processes involved in memory functioning, or metamemory [2,3]. Metamemory refers to one's knowledge of, beliefs about and awareness of development, functioning and capacities of one's memory [4].…”

Efficacy of a Metacognitive Training Program in Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment: A 6-Month Follow Up Randomized Controlled Trial.

“…Enhancing self-e cacy can motivate older adults to learn and apply more advanced cognitive strategies and improve their overall well-being (McDougall et al, 2010;Wiegand et al, 2013). Additional evidence supporting the metacognitive approach's effectiveness comes from a new meta-analysis conducted by Sella et al (2023) performance, along with a reduction in subjective memory complaints compared to a passive control group (waiting list). To our knowledge, this is the only study that tested the e cacy of an MTP designed for MCI using an RCT design.…”

EngAge – A metacognitive intervention to supplement working memory training: A feasibility study in older adults

“…To disrupt such thinking patterns, several interventions that embrace metacognitive approaches (particularly those that include specific activities aimed at fostering metacognitive processes) have been developed, and there is recent meta -analytical evidence that such interventions are promising avenues to improve memory performance in adulthood and older age (see [74] . There are also promising effects for programs that combine metacognitive approaches with mnemonic strategy interventions that attempt to improve episodic memory performance through the teaching of mnemonic techniques.…”

“…There are also promising effects for programs that combine metacognitive approaches with mnemonic strategy interventions that attempt to improve episodic memory performance through the teaching of mnemonic techniques. However, it is still unclear whether mnemonic strategies are easily generalizable beyond the specific context in which they are trained (see [74] . No studies to our knowledge have attempted to capitalize on metacognitive processes to supplement a WM intervention in older adults.…”

“…The aim of the present study was therefore to examine the feasibility and efficacy of this novel training approach in an older adult population, with the hope of generating more pronounced benefits, as well as longitudinal effects by activating the relevant dopaminergic systems to optimally support WM functioning and training gains [35] . The metacognitive program - called EngAge - was designed to include specific activities aimed at challenging misconceptions about cognitive functioning and age-related changes, to enhance metacognitive knowledge and regulatory processes, as well as fostering positive attitudes, attributions, self-efficacy, and motivation towards engaging in demanding cognitively-stimulating activities to promote healthy aging (e.g., [74] , [83] . The metacognitive program was also thought to promote a growth mindset and improve engagement and persistence with the WM training program, which is essential given that training on n-back is often perceived as complex and demanding [87] .…”