The Role of Neuropsychological Function Tests in Predicting Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment in the Elderly

Background: Various studies have documented age-related changes in cognitive abilities and neural basis. Objectives: To investigate the role of neuropsychological function tests in predicting amnestic mild cognitive impairment in the elderly. Materials & Methods: In this cross-sectional study with a correlational design, the study population included elderly people over 60 years old residing in Bojnord City, Iran, in the spring of 2019. The participants were selected by cluster sampling method (n=128). The study instruments included the Bender-Gestalt test, Wechsler memory scale-revised, Wechsler adult intelligence scale third edition, and behavior rating inventory of executive functions. According to the scores of the elderly in the Wechsler memory scale (cut-off score=70), the participants were divided into two groups with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and no MCI. For analyzing data, the discriminant analysis was performed using SPSS v. 23. Results: Discriminant analysis showed that the obtained discriminant function had a significant diagnostic power (χ2 =166.001, P<0.0001) and 70% of the difference between the two groups with amnestic mild cognitive impairment and no mild cognitive impairment was explained by scores of fluid intelligence, visual-motor coordination, and executive functions. The predictor variables correctly classified 96.9% of the elderly in the groups of amnestic MCI and no MCI. Visual-motor coordination (coefficient=0.53) and fluid intelligence (coefficient=-0.54) were strong variables in predicting amnestic MCI. Conclusion: Neuropsychological function tests can help predict amnestic MCI in the elderly