Spanish norms focused on learning measures for the picture version of the free and cued selective reminding test with immediate recall

BackgroundThe Free and Cued Selective Reminding Test (FCSRT) is a gold-standard among memory tests. Administration focused on learning measures may be more feasible for settings with limited face-to-face time per patient.ObjectiveTo obtain norms based on learning measures for the picture version of the FCSRT with Immediate Recall (pFCSRT + IR) from Spanish population.MethodsA prospective normative study. Cognitively unimpaired volunteers were systematically recruited if eligible (age ≥50, no memory complaints, and a total TMA-93 score at or above the 10th percentile). In a second and independent session, the pFCSRT-IR was administered and its free recall and total recall (learning measures) were scored (range of score: 0-48 points). If a variable showed a high ceiling effect it was dichotomized; otherwise, a regression-based method was followed.ResultsThe final sample included 257 participants. Mean age and years of schooling were 67.46 (SD = 9.42, range = 50-88) years and 10.30 (SD = 5.81, range = 0-30) years, respectively. 68.9% were females. Scores for total recall showed ceiling effect, with 90.7% of the participants scoring > 46, which allowed dichotomizing the cutoff point at 46/47 (10th percentile). Free recall scores exhibited variability and were influenced by years of schooling, as well as by an age-by-sex interaction identified in the regression analysis.ConclusionsThe study provides norms based on learning measures for using the pFCSRT + IR in Spain. The 46/47 cutoff point for total recall may be a reliable and easy-to-use measure for diagnosing memory impairment. Norms for free recall must also take an age-by-sex interaction into account.