1. Positive Ageing School of Psychology The University of Western Australia Kevin Mo & Alice Gummery

2. What is ‘normal’ ageing? What do you think are some of the normal changes as we age?

3. What is normal? NormalNot so normal Gradual changes in memory capacity Changes in speed of thinking Changes in social functioning Changes in emotional functioning Wisdom remains, and even increases Loss of memory Becoming disoriented (confusion) Less sociable, isolated Depression Dementia

4. What can we do to help with these changes? When learning new things: don’t rush, avoid distractions Use mnemonic devices Keep “to do” lists / use “post-its” Use a calendar/diary/mobile device Stay active, social, and healthy – e.g., Men’s Shed! Don’t buy into ageist stereotypes!

5. What is the role of emotions? Memory Thinking Interpretation Attention Sleep Health

6. Strategies for Optimising Mental & Emotional Health Physical exercise (especially aerobic exercises) –Take the stairs rather than the lift –Gardening Maintaining social connections –Frequent interaction with family, friends and work colleagues. –Engaging in social activities Stimulating mental activity –Learning a new hobby –Problem solving activities Eating a healthy diet –Fruits and vegetables –Foods high in omega 3 (salmon, kiwi fruit and walnuts)

7. Positive Ageing REMEMBER: Talk to your doctor, reduce stress, take care of your body, get connected to the community, and set small goals!!

8. Our team’s research Healthy Ageing Research Project (HARP) Thinking skills as we age Prospective Memory and healthy ageing* Awareness of Prospective Memory Sleep and Prospective Memory

9. I need to remember buy milk on the way home

10. Prospective Memory and Ageing Old vs. Young How does Prospective Memory change as we age? How does it relate to other abilities? Is it sensitive to things like dementia?

11. Our Research Prospective Memory and how well people take their medications Prospective Memory and Multi-tasking

12. West Australian Participant Pool BUT… We need volunteers Exploring the mind with WAPP http://wapp.psychology.uwa.edu.au/wo rdpresshttp://wapp.psychology.uwa.edu.au/wo rdpress

13. One volunteer says… “Of course, the University has easy access to young volunteers but they need more older people. The projects are very interesting and quite good fun - I recommend being a volunteer! The tests usually last about one hour - why not have a go?” J. Griffiths.

14. How you can help No participants = no research! Why people say ‘no’ –I am too old/young –I am not clever enough –It will be stressful/embarrassing –I won’t have any choice about what I do –I won’t be able to change my mind

15. Thank you for your time and attention Do you have any questions?