Reducing gist-based false recognition in older adults: Encoding and retrieval manipulations

Using a categorized pictures paradigm, Koutstaal and Schacter (1997) report ed high levels of false recognition of lures that were categorically relate d to presented items. Although also shown by younger adults, false recognit ion was markedly higher for older adults. To probe the factors underlying t his age difference, these experiments required participants to engage in mo re careful scrutiny of the items at retrieval or to notice specific differe ntiating perceptual features of the objects during encoding. False recognit ion was reduced with each of these manipulations, but neither manipulation, either separately or together, eliminated the age difference in false reco gnition. Older adults can considerably reduce False recognition if encourag ed to use more stringent decision criteria. Persistent difficulty in opposi ng familiarity-based responding and comparatively more generic encoding may contribute to residual deficits.