[Principles of multivariate memory diagnosis]

In this study results from experimental research on aging memory serve as a basis for standardized memory assessment techniques. By analyzing the covariations of nine memory tasks a structural memory model is proposed, which is shown to be invariant across ages 60 to 90. Findings concerning the external validity of the outlined memory model are discussed. Factorial invariance of memory performance is a prerequisite for detecting therapy-induced changes: It is only on the basis of psychometric test procedures, which have been shown to transcend the factors of age and performance level, that comparative evaluations of individual therapy effects are possible.