Patterns of memory deterioration in normal and memory impaired elderly

Abstract

This study investigated the relationship between levels of functional impairment (FI) and memory functioning over a 12 to 18 month time interval. Sixty‐five normal elderly (NE) and 79 patients referred for suspected memory disorders (SMD) served as subjects. The SMD group was categorized into Questionable (n = 22), Mild (n = 22), Moderate (n = 21), and Severe (n = 14) subgroups reflecting levels of FI using the Functional Rating Scale. Memory functioning at initial and repeat assessment was measured using a cued recall selective reminding paradigm to provide estimates of acquisition, retention, and retrieval. Results indicated that subjects showed progressive decrements in memory with increasing FI severity. The least impaired subjects at initial assessment experienced less memory dysfunction and decline than more impaired subjects. Individuals initially rated as having mild or moderate FI experienced memory decline to a level consistent with the next level of severity at reassessment.