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Measuring memory in large group settings using a continuous recognition test

Authors

Ashford, J. Wesson, Gere, Emily, Bayley, Peter J.

Journal

Journal Of Alzheimer's Disease: JAD, Volume: 27, No.: 4, Pages.: 885-895

Year of Publication

2011

Abstract

Memory function generally deteriorates with age, and memory impairments are a common symptom of serious illness such as dementia. Although screening tests are widely used throughout Medicine, they are not yet commonly used to detect memory impairments. The objective of this study was to characterize an audience-based memory test suitable for administration to a large number of individuals simultaneously. A continuous recognition test was developed to assess memory function in audiences using a slide-show in which 50 images were presented, of which 25 were repeated. Audience members responded by recording if an image was a repetition. The test was administered to a total of 1018 participants at 25 sites with an average audience size of 41 individuals (range = 9-142). A total of 868 individuals aged 40-97 y completed the test appropriately and provided their age, education level, and gender. Recognition memory as measured by discriminability (d’) showed a significant decline with age (40-49 y old, d’ = 3.51; 90-99 y old, d’ = 1.95, p < 0.001) together with a greater than three-fold increase in variability. Individuals with less than 13 y of education had lower scores than those with more education (d' = 2.13 vs. 2.88, respectively, p < 0.001). These results are consistent with the known effects of age and education on memory. There were no significant effects of gender on test performance. Such memory tests represent a practical and novel approach to screen for the signs of early dementia.;

Keywords

adult, age factors, aged, aged, 80 and over, aging, diagnosis, educational status, female, humans, longitudinal studies, male, memory disorders, middle aged, neuropsychological tests, physiology, recognition psychology

Countries of Study

USA

Types of Dementia

Dementia (general / unspecified), Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)

Types of Study

Before and After Study

Type of Interventions

Diagnostic Target Identification

Diagnostic Targets

Cognition testing (inc. task driven tests such as clock drawing)