Psychology ETDs

Publication Date

Winter 12-7-2024

Abstract

American Indian (AI) older adults are most at risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias in the United States. However, there are no cognitive screening tools validated or normed for AI populations, limiting the diagnostic accuracy of current tools. In this study, a culturally adapted screening tool was adapted for three different sites with older AI adults, and validated against widely used neurocognitive screening measures to determine convergent validity. Results found that adapted story memory scores were significantly higher than unadapted scores. Additionally, culturally salient story memory scores were more consistent with measures of crystalized intelligence, while unadapted story memory seemed to utilize executive functioning pathways. Incorporating information from an individual’s general fund of information into story memory measures shows promise for a culturally congruent measure of Baseline cognitive functioning. Results offer an exciting advancement of how we understand cognitive assessment for AI populations, and add to literature on improving diagnostic capabilities for this underserved group.

Degree Name

Psychology

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

Psychology

First Committee Member (Chair)

Steven Verney, Ph.D.

Second Committee Member

Lynette Abrams-Silva, Ph.D.

Third Committee Member

Jeremy Hogeveen, Ph.D.

Fourth Committee Member

Lonnie Nelson, Ph.D.

Language

English

Keywords

Cultural Neuropsychology, Dementia, Aging, Cognitive Testing, American Indian/Alaska Native

Document Type

Thesis

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