Effects of relaxation and mnemonics on memory, attention and anxiety in the elderly.

We measured attentional capacity as 25 normal elderly subjects were trained in techniques to improve face-name recall. Techniques consisted of relaxation training and a mnemonic device. Anxiety was measured simultaneously with attentional measures. We hypothesized that our techniques would increase available memory processing capacity by improving attention and reducing anxious rumination. Results indicated that subjects showing the greatest reduction in anxiety and cognitive interference and the greatest increase in attention also showed the most face-name recall following training. The results suggest that the elderly's anxiety has a cognitive component that interferes with performance on attentional and memory tasks, but which can be reduced through relaxation training.