Preliminary evidence on the question of gender differences in language testing of older people

The effect of gender on the outcomes of language assessments in older people is relatively unknown. This study compared the performance of groups of normal older men and women on three different batteries of language and memory tests. No significant mean score difference was found. All three batteries therefore show no strong quantitative gender bias and can be applied equally to older men and women with communication difficulties. Although no quantitative gender difference was found, the data suggested two possible areas for further investigation (error types and interpersonal styles) which may have clinical implications.