Effects of a Memory and Visual-Motor Integration Program for Older Adults Based on Self-Efficacy Theory

摘要

Purpose This study was conducted to verify the effects of a memory and visual-motor integration program for older adults based on self-efficacy theory. Methods A non-equivalent control group pretest–posttest design was implemented in this quasi-experimental study. The participants were 62 older adults from senior centers and older adult welfare facilities in D and G city (Experimental group=30, Control group=32). The experimental group took part in a 12-session memory and visual-motor integration program over 6 weeks. Data regarding memory self-efficacy, memory, visual-motor integration, and depression were collected from July to October of 2014 and analyzed with independent t-test and Mann-Whitney U test using PASW Statistics (SPSS) 18.0 to determine the effects of the interventions. Results Memory self-efficacy (t=2.20, p =.031), memory (Z=-2.92, p =.004), and visual-motor integration (Z=-2.49, p =.013) increased significantly in the experimental group as compared to the control group. However, depression (Z=-0.90, p =.367) did not decrease significantly. Conclusion This program is effective for increasing memory, visual-motor integration, and memory self-efficacy in older adults. Therefore, it can be used to improve cognition and prevent dementia in older adults.