Vieillissement et chronopsychologie : quand l'institution s'égare… et que la personne âgée perd ses repères

Research in chronobiology and chronopsychology has considerably contributed to the improvement of school rhythms and working conditions. However, chronobiological rhythms of elderly people have never been appreciated neither generally nor specifically. Consequently, elderly care institutions seldom adapt their activities according to the circadian evolution of the cognitive processes of their residents. Memory activities involving short or long-term memory, handling of objects, reading, writing, verbal language, spontaneous gestures, intellectual performance, planned tasks or any activity requiring concentration and care: when is the optimal moment of the day to achieve the best performance, or conversely, when should certain activities be avoided? This original study gives precise answers to these questions and helps prevent the elderly from being confronted with failure and damaged self-esteem.