“Age no barrier to learning” affirms PhD Granddad

Terry O’Neill has been awarded a doctorate for his research into smoking and its negative effects on memory. His achievement is all the more impressive as his return to education followed a stroke which forced him to retire.

He said: “In 2000 I ran two companies, one of which was an engineering consultancy. Following two minor strokes I was advised by my doctors to sell up, and decided to focus my activities on education as I had recently completed a Strategy and Resource Management degree.”

Despite initially planning to take on a PhD in business, Terry decided to apply for a BSc Psychology degree where he met his future PhD tutor Dr Tom Heffenan, whose internationally recognised work on drug use and its effects mirrored Terry’s plans to research the effects of smoking.

Terry, who lives in Gateshead, said: “In my younger years, I was a heavy smoker, regularly smoking up to 40 cigarettes a day – as well as the occasional pipe. One day when I was in hospital, I saw a miner whose lung had been removed. It had a profound effect on me and I have never smoked a cigarette since.

“My research looked at the everyday cognitive consequences of prolonged smoking. The findings show that smoking impairs prospective memory – which is that part of memory used to plan future intentions, such as remembering to meet with friends, or remembering to take your medication on time.

“Across a series of studies, the research reveals consistently that those who persistently smoke forget more prospective memory actions than those who have never-smoked. However, the research also found evidence of recovery in prospective memory in those who stopped smoking for an extended period of time – which is good news for those who are contemplating giving up smoking.”

Terry has presented his work at a number of prestigious events, including an audience from around the world at the 4th International Conference on Memory in Sydney Australia in 2006 and more recently in Prague. His PhD work was recently included in the influential journal: Drug and Alcohol Dependence, and further publications are expected later this year.

Speaking about his academic successes, Terry added: “It has been a huge inspiration to have worked so closely with Dr. Heffernan, his insights and encouragement have motivated me and I’m very grateful for all his ongoing support.

“My wife has also been a tower of strength for me throughout my studies so it was quite fitting that I was with my wife celebrating our 53rd wedding anniversary when I was told that my PhD submission had been successful.”

Terry believes that his academic experiences have been invaluable. “Coming back to Higher Education has been one of the best things I’ve ever done,” he added. “Study keeps the brain working and being among younger people has kept me young and alert.

“More older people should think about going to university. With perseverance and real determination people can succeed regardless of their age.”

Terry’s PhD Tutor, Dr Tom Heffernan, said: “Terry’s success at such a high academic level is remarkable for so many different reasons. For a man of Terry’s age to be active in HE is impressive in itself, however the potentially far-reaching consequences of his research have gone beyond academic achievement and now stands to influence the debate surrounding smoking in both medical and psychological fields. Terry should be as proud as we are of his successes.”