Research Symposium

BIO

Abigail is a sophomore Biology major and Psychology minor originally from Tampa, Florida. She hopes to attend a Physician Assistant Program after completing her Bachelors at FSU. She is interested in Social Medicine and other scientific research.

Purpose and Engagement in Everyday Life (PEEL)

Abstract

The progression of cognitive decline, in connection with personality and purpose in life, has not been fully explored in current research. New evidence suggests that psychological factors, such as purpose and motivation, largely affect the rate of cognitive decline. This research focuses on finding out if a sense of purpose in life is connected to cognitive performance in adults ages 65 and older. Purpose in Life “reflects a life that is goal-oriented and driven” and it can help lead one to better physical health, mental health, and improved episodic memory. An episodic Memory can help support better cognition because the brain is better at storing and retrieving information. The study that influenced PEEL occurred during the Covid-19 Pandemic in the United States, ultimately addressing the “depressed effect” among participants and Covid related memories.

Keywords: PEEL, Social Medicine, Cognition