Semester Award Granted
Summer 2025
Submission Date
August 2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]
Monica Rosselli
Abstract
The study investigated longitudinal changes in verbal and nonverbal memory among older adults, examining the influence of demographic variables (age, sex, and education), memory associations with cognitive screening performance over time, and short-term practice effects. Linear mixed-effects models and repeated measures ANCOVAs were used to evaluate memory change over time and determine which memory tests were more susceptible to practice effects. Memory was assessed using subscales from the Loewenstein-Acevedo Scales for Semantic Interference and Learning (LASSI-L), Craft Story 21 (CS), and the Benson Complex Figure Test (BCFT). Results showed that age and sex were significant predictors of verbal memory, with women outperforming men; education had limited influence. Nonverbal memory outcomes showed weaker associations with demographic variables. Changes in cognitive screening scores (MoCA) were strongly associated with changes in both verbal and nonverbal memory. Practice effects were minimal, with meaningful performance gains observed only on one verbal memory subscales.
Recommended Citation
Owen, Lauryn, "LONGITUDINAL CHANGES IN VERBAL AND NONVERBAL MEMORY AMONG OLDER ADULTS: THE RELEVANCE OF DEMOGRAPHIC VARIABLES" (2025). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 137.
https://digitalcommons.fau.edu/etd_general/137