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Computerized Assessment of Memory Performance in Dementia

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  18 September 2015

Francisco I. Perez*
Affiliation:
Neuropsychology Laboratory, Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, The Neurosensory Center of Houston, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
Nancy A. Hruska
Affiliation:
Neuropsychology Laboratory, Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, The Neurosensory Center of Houston, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
Rebecca L. Stell
Affiliation:
Neuropsychology Laboratory, Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, The Neurosensory Center of Houston, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
Victor M. Rivera
Affiliation:
Neuropsychology Laboratory, Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, The Neurosensory Center of Houston, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
*
Neuropsychology Laboratory, Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, U.S.A.
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Memory deficits in demented patients were studied by applying a computerized system to titrate individual memory performance. Two delayed matching to sample tasks were used. ABA1 involved random visual shapes used as a measure of visual memory. ABA 2 involved nonsense syllable trigrams used as a measure of verbal memory. A Human Test System panel with a display screen was utilized. This screen was a rear view projection window divided into four independent 3 x 2 sections arranged in a 2 x 2 matrix. The sample stimulus appeared on the upper left window for one second. The delay interval between stimulus sample and choices varied by 7 seconds dependent upon patient performance per trial. A Iso utilized was a color distractor task. Task parameters, data acquisition, retrieval, and graphic print-outs were all computerized. Individual titration levels reflected the severity of neurological impairment. Computerized assessment enabled subtle changes in memory performance to be readily identified. Implications for use of the system as a screening device in the assessment of mental changes in the elderly are apparent.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © Canadian Neurological Sciences Federation 1978

References

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