The development and validation of a test battery for detecting and monitoring everyday memory problems

Abstract

This paper describes the Rivermead Behavioural Memory Test (RMBT) - a short test of everyday memory problems with four parallel forms. It was administered to 118 control subjects aged between 16–69 years with a mean IQ of 106 (range 68–136). The limit of normal performance was established on this group and cut-off points were determined for individual components of the test. The test was also given to 176 brain-damaged people and its validity assessed both by correlating RMBT scores to performance on existing tests, to subjective ratings from patients and carers and to observation by therapists of memory lapses. Validity, parallel form and interrater reliability all proved to be high. It is concluded that the RBMT is a short, reliable, and valid test of everyday memory problems.