Examining the factor structure of the Multifactorial Memory Questionnaire

Abstract

ABSTRACT Many adults report memory changes as they age. The Multifactorial Memory Questionnaire (MMQ) measures different aspects of self-reported memory, including satisfaction with one’s memory, self-appraisal of memory ability, and compensatory strategy use. This questionnaire has been extensively used for clinical and research purposes, with studies reporting differences in the factor structure (three or four factors) underlying this measure. The current study evaluates previously reported factor configurations of the MMQ using best measurement practices. Confirmatory factor analyses were conducted on data from 560 cognitively – normal adults, ranging in age from 50 to 90 years old. Our results demonstrate support for both 3-factor model (with Satisfaction, Ability and Strategy scales) and 4-factor model structure (with Satisfaction, Ability, Internal Strategy and External Strategy scales) of this instrument. These results harmonise the existing literature which, in separate studies using exploratory analyses, supports the validity of one model or the other. The confirmation of multiple Strategy scales will provide clinicians and researchers with additional relevant information about how older adults compensate for their memory changes, enabling a broader understanding of the experience of age-related memory change. We contextualise these results within existing research identifying conceptual differences between internal and external strategy implementation.