Memory in old age – A life-span perspective

In this chapter, memory is considered from a life-span perspective combining a geropsychological as well as a life-span developmental view. Characteristics of such a view are This chapter focusses memory under the perspective of human ageing. It starts with a conception of ageing that highlights the interplay of genetics, life styles and culture as fundamental dynamics underlying the ageing process as well as it’s impact on memory functioning. A second section focuses the context of ontogenesis and describes central concepts of memory structure and functioning in a life span perspective underlining the adaptive function of memory use. Building on this, a third section elaborates the dynamic interplay and the role of memory in the self-regulation of the ageing self. The last section puts memory in the context of two aspects of culture differing between assistive culture providing knowledge and technology resources and culture as representing symbolic resources that help in the collective and individual construction of meaning.