George Credle participates in the Health Outreach Program for the Elderly (HOPE) study funded by the National Institute on Aging to determine the impact of aging on memory.

George Credle, 72, is doing his part to keep his mind sharp.

“It’s one thing to lose your keys,” he said. “But when you have keys and you don’t know what they belong to, that’s not good.”

For the last three years, he has participated in a federally funded study where participants aged 65 and older undergo tests on memory and concentration.

“They tell you stories,” Credle explained, “and you have to tell them back to show how much you remember. They show you pictures and then you have to draw what you’ve seen.”

Credle said he doesn’t mind the tests, but is concerned that others may find them a bit scary.

After all, no one wants to lose their mind.

“In my opinion,” Credle said, “It’s good to be [tested]. They can catch it early on.” Full story

Note to self: Write things down

Marguerite Thompson is almost 88 years old, and by her own admission, she doesn’t know whether she is coming or going.

The time and day can be puzzling as well. “Offhand, I don’t know what day it is,” she said.

Her sister, Dolores Nichols, 72, reminded her of the time she got lost in the basement of her apartment complex after attending a birthday party. Interestingly enough, Thompson merely exited the basement and re-entered the building through the front door. Full story