Intersubtest discrepancies on the RBANS: results from the OKLAHOMA study
Kevin Duff1, Doyle E Patton, Mike R Schoenberg
1Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, 84108, USA. kevin.duff@hsc.utah.edu
Applied Neuropsychology
|June 11, 2011
Summary
This study offers new base rate data for neuropsychological test score differences in older adults. These findings improve the detection of significant cognitive changes in aging individuals.
Area of Science:
- Neuropsychology
- Gerontology
- Cognitive Psychology
Background:
- The Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS) is a widely used cognitive assessment tool.
- Establishing normative data, including base rates for score discrepancies, is crucial for accurate interpretation.
- Existing normative data may not adequately account for age and education variations in older adult populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide supplemental base rate data for discrepancies between RBANS subtests.
- To organize these data by general ability level, incorporating age and education corrections.
- To enhance the sensitivity of detecting clinically significant cognitive changes in older adults.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the Oklahoma Longitudinal Assessment of Health Outcomes in Mature Adults study.
- Analyzed cognitive performances of 718 community-dwelling older adults.
- Calculated base rate data for subtest discrepancies, adjusted for age and education.
Main Results:
- Presented base rate data for RBANS subtest discrepancies, stratified by general ability level.
- Demonstrated that age and education corrections are integral to interpreting discrepancy scores.
- Highlighted the mediating effect of global cognitive functioning on discrepancy score interpretation.
Conclusions:
- The study's findings can increase the sensitivity in detecting clinically significant cognitive differences in older adults.
- Newly reported base rate data offer a more nuanced approach compared to data from broader age ranges.
- Understanding the influence of global cognitive function on discrepancy scores is vital for accurate neuropsychological assessment.
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