Simple verbal analogies test: normative data on a short task exploring abstract thinking

Aging Clin Exp Res. 2014 Feb;26(1):67-71. doi: 10.1007/s40520-013-0180-0. Epub 2013 Dec 4.

Abstract

Background and aims: The simple verbal analogies test (SVAT) is a short neuropsychological task requiring few minutes of administration that explores inductive verbal abstract thinking. It already showed a good specificity and sensitivity in discriminating normal controls from probable Alzheimer's disease patients. Verbal working memory, semantic knowledge and memory and word-finding ability are also involved in performing analogies. The aim of this study is to provide the normative values of this test in a sample of normal controls and corrections of raw scores and equivalent scores.

Methods and results: We determined the normative values of SVAT in a sample of 424 normal controls to provide corrections of raw scores and equivalent scores.

Conclusions: SVAT is a useful test to assess executive functions, working memory and to discriminate between cognitive deterioration and normal aging.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Aging / physiology*
  • Cognition Disorders / physiopathology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Memory, Short-Term / physiology*
  • Middle Aged
  • Neuropsychological Tests
  • Thinking / physiology*
  • Verbal Behavior / physiology*