Self Assessment Memory Scale (SAMS), a new simple method for evaluating memory function

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Psychology
• Gerontology

Background:

• Dementia diagnosis requires sensitive tools for early detection of cognitive decline.
• Memory recall impairment is a key early symptom of dementia.
• Existing assessment methods can be time-consuming or require clinical administration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a simple, self-administered method for assessing early memory recall changes.
• To introduce the Self Assessment Memory Scale (SAMS) for early dementia detection.
• To evaluate the correlation of SAMS with a standard cognitive assessment tool.

Main Methods:

• Developed a self-assessment tool comprising an 8-picture recall test and a 16-word regression test.
• Calculated an index (SAMS) based on the ratio of correct responses from both tests.
• Assessed 85 participants (12 MCI, 8 AD, 65 controls) and correlated SAMS with the WMS-R Logical Memory II score.

Main Results:

• The 8-picture recall test showed a significant correlation with the WMS-R Logical Memory II score (R = 0.872, p < 0.0001).
• The SAMS index demonstrated a strong correlation with the WMS-R Logical Memory II score (R = 0.857, p < 0.0001).
• Results indicate SAMS effectively measures memory recall relevant to cognitive function.

Conclusions:

• The Self Assessment Memory Scale (SAMS) is a valid and reliable tool for self-assessing memory recall changes.
• SAMS shows promise for early detection of cognitive impairment in potential dementia cases.
• A digital version of SAMS is under development for accessible, self-administered cognitive evaluation.