[Elaboration and standardization of a series of psychometric tests for old people (author's transl)]

We had previously elaborated a series of psychometric tests for old people. The aim of this test series is to assess the effects of brain-stimulating drugs (vasodilatating drugs). A factorial analysis was then carried out which enables us to reduce the number of tests, on the one hand, and to indicate the most fundamental fields of activity in old people, on the other hand. Four factors were distinguished. They assess respectively: watchfulness, memory, fluidity, and precision in the task undertaken. These four factors are strongly correlated. This implies the presence of a general factor, close in kind to the first factor. Watchfulness, attention and concentration are, in fact, necessary but insufficient conditions for the performance of all cognitive activities. A total of 7 tests among the most representative of each factor were retained. They are described in detail: test conditions, instructions, scoring and standardization.