Bedside evaluation of learning and memory: descriptive information on a shortened version of the Luria Memory Words...

Descriptive information on the shortened version of the Luria Memory Words Test (LMWT-SF), a serial word-learning list of seven items, administered across five trials with a three-minute delay, is presented. The purpose of the investigation was to determine what constituted adequate performance among nondemented elderly inpatients, and to compare the results to traditional bedside memory measures among elders diagnosed with dementia. Results revealed significant group differences on Trials 3, 4, 5, total learning score, and the delay trial among demented and non-demented geriatric inpatients. Sensitivity and specificity ratings for the LMWT-SF delay trial were 80% and 72%, respectively, at a cut-off of 3 / 4, and 71% and 60%, respectively, for the total learning score, at a cut-off of 26 / 27. While this measure cannot take the place of a comprehensive evaluation of memory and learning, LMWT-SF performance can suggest when a more comprehensive evaluation is required, and may provide value as a cost-effective screening tool.