Training older persons to use memory strategies and mnemonic techniques derived from an information processing model of memory has resulted in improvements in performance on specific tasks. Some studies have also shown that the elderly are less likely to use memory techniques than younger persons and that it is the use of techniques that best predicts performance. The effectiveness of memory training classes for normal older adults was evaluated by measuring performance on six memory tasks before and after two types of training, Didactic and Inductive, and comparing the results with two control groups, an activity group and a wait list. Tasks included names and faces, a shopping list, directions, unrelated words, doctor's instructions, and daily tasks. Subjects completed a Memory Complaints Questionnaire to assess subjective memory complaints and two affective measures, the Zung Depression Inventory and the Brief Symptom Inventory. Practice, not training, produced greater results but there was a significant correlation between performance and complaints, and between complaints and depression. Those who complained more performed more poorly and were more depressed. (Author)