Improving Memory in Older Adults with Mild Memory Difficulties: Enhancing Encoding Through Music and Metacognition

Memory decline is an early manifestation of Alzheimer's disease (AD), highlighting the need for accessible cognitive interventions. This study explores musical mnemonics and metacognition as learning strategies. We recruited 33 older adults with mild memory difficulties and 40 controls, who were asked to listen to and memorize audio excerpts presented either in a sung or spoken format. Half of the participants provided Judgments of Learning (JOLs) to estimate their likelihood of recalling the information. Preliminary results in the patient group show a significant improvement in general content recognition for sung excerpts. In contrast, the effect of metacognitive strategies appears weaker than expected. These findings suggest promising avenues for memory rehabilitation targeting early-stage AD risk. Further research may support the development of low-cost, easy-to-implement, non-pharmacological interventions to help preserve autonomy and quality of life in older adults.