INTRODUCTION: Studies document a change in memory during the process of aging. However, studies report the possibility of improvement after training. OBJECTIVE: To replicate international findings regarding the effects of memory training with a sample of Brazilian elders and to investigate mechanisms, such as the use of strategies, that can explain its benefits. METHODS: 69 healthy Brazilian elders were randomly divided into an experimental group (EG) and a control group (CG), and received four sessions of training (CG received training after pos-test). Training included information on memory and the process of aging, instruction and practice in organizing grocery lists and the underlining of main ideas in short texts. RESULTS: There was superior improvement for prose recall and greater use of strategies (organizing lists and underlining texts) for the EG at post-test. Both groups reported fewer memory complaints (assessed with the MAC-Q) and faster information processing (WAIS-R Digit Symbols sub-test). CONCLUSIONS: After training, elders intensify the use of strategies, however, this fact does not guarantee a better performance (there was no significant improvement in list recalls). List recall results suggest the presence of the utilization deficiency: elders used the strategy but failed to benefit from it.
Memory; training; aging; strategies
