Memory As a Learning Tool For Older Adults

Abstract

The article is a literature review aiming to capture memory’s essence as a learning process. Particularly interesting is the issue of memory, and therefore the ability to learn, in older adults. Modern neuroscience uses tools to study the human brain’s capabilities in old age. A review of research concerning the memory of older people indicates that non-declarative memory is responsible for acquiring skills or encoding and storing sensory information, which is relatively well preserved in late adulthood. Semantic memory, i.e., the system of concepts and general knowledge about the world, is well preserved (vocabulary resources increase with age), unlike event memory, i.e., episodic memory, which deteriorates significantly. Working memory, responsible for short-term storage and manipulation of information, is significantly weakened. From the point of view of learning in late adulthood, these data should make gerontologists happy because they indicate that a healthy older adult retains educational potential.