Learning by Rote Can Improve Memory in Over-60s

A researcher from Dublin, Ireland, has reported the results of rote learning in older people. Healthy men and women over 60 agreed to undertake 6 weeks of intensive memory training – they were asked to memorize 500 words –an article or a poem – every week. At the end of each week they were tested to see if they had succeeded in their task. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) was used to establish changes in metabolism in specific parts of the brain; it was done at baseline, after the 6 weeks of learning, and after 6 weeks’ rest. Standard memory tests were done at the same time intervals.

Immediately after the 6-week program there was no change in either the MRS scans or memory tests, but after the 6-week rest period there were increases in three metabolites that are indicators of memory and neural cell viability (N-acetyl-aspartate, creatine, and choline) in the left half of the brain. In the memory tests, participants were better able to recall word lists, a short story, and specific events from the previous day or week. Not everyone had improved test results – only those who got good scores on their weekly learning tasks.

I can’t help feeling that there must be better ways of improving one’s memorizing skills. Instead of rote learning (it was bad enough in our schooldays) the scientists should be able to find an exercise that’s more fun. Of course, there are always those who say that any ‘exercise’ can’t ever be fun . . .