An object location memory paradigm for older adults with and without mild cognitive impairment.

摘要: Abstract Background Object-location memory is critical in every-day life and known to deteriorate early the course of neurodegenerative disease. New method We adapted previously established learning paradigm “LOCATO” for use healthy older adults patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Pictures real-life buildings were associated positions on a two-dimensional street map by repetitions “correct” object-location pairings over five training blocks, followed recall task. Correct/incorrect associations indicated button presses. The original two 45-item sets reduced 15 item-sets, tested MCI curve, recall, re-test effects. Results 15-item versions showed comparable curves scores within each group. While increased linearly both groups, performed significantly worse compared controls. Re-testing after 6 month small practice effects only. Comparison existing methods LOCATO simple standardized task that overcomes several limitation employed visuospatial using stimuli, minimizing verbal encoding, avoiding fine motor responses, combining explicit implicit statistical learning, allowing assess curve addition recall. Conclusions show shortened version meets requirements robust ecologically meaningful assessment without MCI. It can now be used systematically acquisition its modulation through adjuvant therapies like pharmacological or non-invasive brain stimulation.