The new standard computerized reading span test and the early detection of dementia

Abstract

Background and Aims:The new standard computerized reading span test (RST), which is a complex verbal working memory test, was tested.Methods:Sixty native Dutch speakers, divided over four different groups (average age of 20, 26, 51, 75), entered the study. The selection of the participants was based on strict (clinical) criteria. A comparison was made between the 4 different age groups with respect to their verbal working memory capacity. The new standard computerized RST (Van den Noort et al., 2006a; 2008) was used.Results:In this study, in line with previous aging studies, a significant decrease in verbal working memory capacity over time and a significant slowing down in mental processing were found. In addition, it was found that older adults made significantly more intrusion errors than young adults thereby confirming the inhibition theory (Hasher & Zacks, 1988). The analysis of the memory-pattern showed a clear recency-effect for the young-, but not for the old adults. Interestingly, the results of this study show that there are larger age-related effects in verbal working memory span than was expected on the basis of aging theories so far (Van den Noort et al., 2006b).Conclusions:The new standard computerized RST (Van den Noort et al., 2006a; 2008) is a suitable complex verbal working memory test that could be used for clinical applications, for instance, for the early detection of dementia. This is important since most psychological tests so far are not sensitive enough to detect this early deterioration.