@mastersthesis {10281, title = {Lifestyle Activities and Episodic Memory: A Dyadic Approach of Spousal Influence Using the Health and Retirement Study}, volume = {PhD}, year = {2018}, note = {Copyright - Database copyright ProQuest LLC; ProQuest does not claim copyright in the individual underlying works; Last updated - 2018-05-21}, month = {04/2018}, pages = {132}, school = {University of Nebraska }, type = {phd}, abstract = {Prior research has identified interindividual variabilities in episodic memory and has explored how many health factors influence individuals{\textquoteright} memory outcomes. Building on existing literature, the current study used a dyadic approach to investigate how specific lifestyle activities and marital relationships are associated with episodic memory among older married couples. Using a national sample from the 2012 Core Health and Retirement Study, a sample of 1,114 couples was examined. Using SAS Proc Mixed, multilevel models were used to evaluate individual and spousal contributions to episodic memory performance. The analyses answered two major questions: 1) What lifestyle activities had an association with individuals{\textquoteright} episodic memory? 2) Using a dyadic approach, which specific spousal lifestyle activities were associated with individuals{\textquoteright} episodic memory? It was hypothesized that individuals{\textquoteright} participation in lifestyle activities would have an association with individuals{\textquoteright} episodic memory. In addition, it was hypothesized that at the couple level, when controlling for the individuals{\textquoteright} lifestyle activities, partners{\textquoteright} participation in lifestyle activities would have an association with individuals{\textquoteright} episodic memory. Results indicated that reading and using a computer were positively associated with individuals{\textquoteright} immediate and delayed recall. Doing word games was positively associated with individuals{\textquoteright} immediate recall. Spouses{\textquoteright} baking/cooking was negatively associated with individuals{\textquoteright} immediate and delayed recall, and sewing/knitting was negatively associated with individuals{\textquoteright} immediate recall. Both individuals{\textquoteright} and partners{\textquoteright} self-rated health and individuals{\textquoteright} rating of their spouses {\textquotedblleft}getting on their nerves{\textquotedblright} were positively associated with immediate recall. The current study demonstrated that individuals{\textquoteright} and spouses{\textquoteright} activities showed an influence on individuals{\textquoteright} episodic memory, though the type of activities differed. Corresponding to Rowe and Kahn{\textquoteright}s successful aging model, having activity engagement, maintaining cognitive functioning, and avoiding diseases are three factors to achieve successful aging. Married couples may have a built-in social relationship and support. Coupled with activity engagement, two out of the three factors bring individuals closer to achieving successful aging.}, keywords = {Dyadic analyses, Episodic Memory, Gerontology, Health and Retirement Study, Lifestyle activities, Social Sciences}, isbn = {9780355864083}, url = {https://proxy.lib.umich.edu/login?url=https://search.proquest.com/docview/2036836323?accountid=14667}, author = {Lai,Khanh P.} }