Retest effects in a diverse sample: sociodemographic predictors and possible correction approaches

ABSTRACT. Repeated cognitive assessment in longitudinal studies favors the occurrence of retest effects, usually increasing the scores obtained at the follow-up assessments when compared to baseline. Therefore, retest effects can compromise the evaluation of cognitive decline in older adults. Objectives: We aimed to verify the occurrence of the retest effect and the impact of sociodemographic characteristics on the follow-up scores in a sample of 5,592 participants with a diverse sociodemographic profile, who were assessed twice during 4 years of follow-up. Methods: We tested two possible approaches to correct the retest effect and calculated the Reliable Change Index. Results: We observed increased scores at the follow-up assessment after 4 years, but the results indicate a modest occurrence of retest effects. The regression difference correction successfully generated follow-up corrected scores, while the mean difference did not provide effective corrections. Sociodemographic characteristics had a minor impact on the retest. Conclusions: We recommend the regression difference correction for retest effects. The absence of this methodological approach might lead to biased results using longitudinal cognitive scores.

Bibliographic Details

Main Authors:	Bertola,Laiss, Benseñor,Isabela Judith Martins, Brunoni,Andre Russowsky, Caramelli,Paulo, Barreto,Sandhi Maria, Moreno,Arlinda Barbosa, Griep,Rosane Harter, Viana,Maria Carmen, Lotufo,Paulo Andrade, Suemoto,Claudia Kimie
Format:	Digital revista
Language:	English
Published:	Academia Brasileira de Neurologia, Departamento de Neurologia Cognitiva e Envelhecimento 2022
Online Access:	http://old.scielo.br/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S1980-57642022000200171
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