Word list memory predicts everyday function and problem-solving in the elderly: Results from the ACTIVE cognitive intervention trial

Abstract

Data from the Advanced Cognitive Training for Independent and Vital Elderly (ACTIVE) trial (N=2,802) were analyzed to examine whether word list learning predicts future everyday functioning. Using stepwise random effects modeling, measures from the modified administrations of the Hopkins Verbal Learning Test (HVLT) and the Auditory Verbal Learning Test (AVLT) were independently predictive of everyday IADL functioning, problem-solving, and psychomotor speed. Associations between memory scores and everyday functioning outcomes remained significant across follow-up intervals spanning five years. HVLT total recall score was consistently the strongest predictor of each functional outcome. Results suggest that verbal memory measures are uniquely associated with both current and future functioning and that specific verbal memory tests like the HVLT and AVLT have important clinical utility in predicting future functional ability among older adults.

Caregiving and Cognitive Function in Older Women

“…These measures were included in the second annual follow-up interview of women participating in the Caregiving Study of Osteoporotic Fractures (described below). They are associated with caregiving responsibilities such as everyday problem solving as well as with functional health outcomes of gait speed, motor tasks, and falls risk (Gross, Rebok, Unverzagt, Willis, & Brandt, 2010; Inzitari et al, 2007; Rosano et al, 2005; Welmerink, Longstreth, Lyles, & Fitzpatrick, 2010). Specifically, the HVLT is associated with everyday function and problem solving over a period as long as 5 years (Gross et al, 2010).…”

“…They are associated with caregiving responsibilities such as everyday problem solving as well as with functional health outcomes of gait speed, motor tasks, and falls risk (Gross, Rebok, Unverzagt, Willis, & Brandt, 2010; Inzitari et al, 2007; Rosano et al, 2005; Welmerink, Longstreth, Lyles, & Fitzpatrick, 2010). Specifically, the HVLT is associated with everyday function and problem solving over a period as long as 5 years (Gross et al, 2010). Processing speed, measured by the DSST, is one of the most sensitive domains of cognitive function, often declining before impairments are apparent in executive function, memory, or global function, making this test important for detecting mild cognitive impairment (Lopez et al, 2003; O'Sullivan, Morris, & Markus, 2005; Thorvaldsson et al, 2008).…”

A study of donepezil in female breast cancer survivors with self-reported cognitive dysfunction 1 to 5 years following adjuvant chemotherapy

“…Memory performance, measured with the HVLT-R, was predictive of independent functioning over 5 years in a geriatric non-cancer cohort [49]. Although significant treatment group differences in memory tasks did occur, we did not find significant differences in HRQL among women on donepezil compared with women receiving placebo.…”

Contribuições de um treino cognitivo para a memória de idosos institucionalizados

“…ex., Belleville, 2008;Belleville, Gilbert, Fontaine, Gagnon, Ménard, & Gauthier, 2006;Belleville, Clément, Mellah, Gilbert, Fontaine & Gauthier, 2011;Gagnon & Belleville, 2012;Gross, Rebok, Unverzagt & Brandt, 2011) Além dessas questões, há uma preocupação relacionada à escolaridade, ao envelhecimento e à cognição, pois, especificamente no caso dos idosos institucionalizados, verificam-se poucos estudos sobre o seu padrão de desempenho em avaliações neuropsicológicas (p. ex., Foss, Vale & Speciali, 2005).…”