Validating a common memory test (California Verbal Learning Test) in American Indian older adults

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These analyses examined how valid, consistent, and reliable CVLT test scores are in American Indians using data (age, sex, education, language use or bilingual ability, depression symptoms, and cognitive testing) from two examination visits. CVLT test scores were valid for clinical assessment of memory in all groups. Age, sex, education, and depression accounted for 16% of variability in CVLT memory scores, whereas bilingual status had no significant association. These findings suggest that CVLT is valid and interpretable for clinical evaluation of memory status in American Indian (Native American) older adults, but with need for consideration of age, sex, education, and depression status. In general, this information is likely to be relevant to clinicians and public health researchers interested in cross-population research. Because CVLT is a verbal learning test, it is important that bilingual speakers were not a disadvantage in CVLT memory testing. Because depression accounted for significant differences in CVLT memory scores, and because depression is both a risk factor for and symptom of cognitive decline, it may be important for clinicians to screen for mental health among persons at risk of memory loss, or among those undergoing memory testing. Because age, sex, education, depression accounted for a relatively small percent of variability, other clinical, socioeconomic, cultural, or environmental factors should also be assessed for relative impact on CVLT memory scores, which is an area for further research.

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