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Lowered performance in working memory and attentional sub-processes are most prominent in multi-domain amnestic mild

Shannon Z Klekociuk1, Mathew J Summers

  • 1School of Psychology, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia.

Psychogeriatrics : the Official Journal of the Japanese Psychogeriatric Society
|February 18, 2014
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Multi-domain amnestic (a-MCI+) patients show significant deficits in working memory and attention. These findings suggest a-MCI+ may indicate early Alzheimer's disease and predict future cognitive decline.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Cognitive Neuroscience
  • Gerontology

Background:

  • Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) may involve working memory and attention deficits.
  • Previous studies lack clarity on these deficits across MCI subtypes due to overlapping tests.
  • This study uses distinct tests to assess cognitive function in MCI subtypes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate working memory and attention in amnestic MCI, non-amnestic MCI, and multi-domain amnestic (a-MCI+) subtypes.
  • To differentiate cognitive profiles using tests independent of MCI classification measures.

Main Methods:

  • 122 adults (60-90 years) were classified into MCI subtypes: amnestic MCI, non-amnestic MCI, and a-MCI+.
  • Working memory and attention were assessed using a distinct neuropsychological test battery.

Main Results:

  • The a-MCI+ group exhibited the most significant impairments in working memory and attention.
  • Non-amnestic MCI showed deficits only in visual span and sustained attention.
  • Amnestic MCI participants displayed no significant working memory or attention deficits.

Conclusions:

  • a-MCI+ subjects demonstrate the most compromised working memory and attention when assessed with distinct measures.
  • These findings align with a-MCI+ resembling early Alzheimer's disease.
  • Individuals with a-MCI+ may face a higher risk of future cognitive decline.
Keywords:
attentionmild cognitive impairmentneuropsychologicalworking memory

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