Abstract
Non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus is present in 7-10% of the aged. This disease appears to be associated with an acceleration of the aging process and results in compromised performance on learning and memory tasks. The present study used a verbal fluency test to examine semantic memory performance in two age groups (55-64 and 65-74 years) of diabetic subjects and controls. In addition, immediate and secondary memory were also examined using the digit symbol and digit span tests and a serial learning task. Results showed that digit symbol performance was poorer for older subjects and diabetics while serial learning was poorer only for diabetic subjects. However, the number of words generated on the verbal fluency test was similar for all groups. Qualitative analyses of the verbal output revealed that older subjects and diabetics produced the greatest number of previously recited words (repetitions). Repetitions may signal a failure to adequately monitor behavior which in turn could contribute to cognitive decline.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
