NCJ Number
101186
Journal
Victimology Volume: 10 Issue: 1-4 Dated: (1985) Pages: 425-440
Date Published
1985
Length
16 pages
Annotation
The purpose of this article is to review and evaluate the theoretical and empirical literature pertinent to the area of eyewitness recall by the elderly.
Abstract
Selected issues are examined related to the ability of the elderly to perceive events; to store, retain, and retrieve memories; and to communicate their observations effectively to others. Although only limited research has been conducted which directly examines the effect of aging on eyewitness recall, the following conclusions were drawn from the literature: (1) the aging process has an adverse effect upon the senses of hearing and sight; however, the extent of the impairment varies greatly across both people and environmental conditions; (2) many factors other than the senses affect perception, which also should be taken into consideration in matters involving eyewitness recall; (3) although aging appears to have a negative effect upon the speed and completeness of recall, it seems to have much less of an effect upon recognition; and (4) several of the factors considered by jurors when assessing the credibility of witnesses may inappropriately prejudice them against the testimony given by elderly witnesses. (Author abstract)