Normative Data for the Symbol Digit Modalities Test in Older White Australians and Americans, African-Americans, and Hispanic/Latinos.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Processing speed, which can be assessed using the Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), is central to many brain functions. Processing speed declines with advanced age but substantial impairments are indicative of brain injury or disease.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to provide SDMT normative data for older community-dwelling individuals in the U.S. and Australia.

Methods

The ASPREE trial recruited 19,114 relatively healthy older men and women in Australia and the U.S. from the general community. All participants were without a diagnosis of dementia and with a Modified Mini-Mental State examination score of 78 or more at enrolment. The SDMT was administered at baseline as part of a neuropsychological test battery.

Results

The median age of

SUBMITTER: Ryan J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7504980 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature