Exploring the structure of a neuropsychological assessment with cognitively healthy adults

Neuropsychological batteries commonly used are composed of tests that assess a wide range of cognitive abilities. Most of these batteries are based on several theoretical models – such as the Cattell-Horn-Carroll taxonomy or other neuropsychological models – to formulate diagnostic and prognostic hypotheses. To improve the clinical utility of the tests, it is necessary to examine the validity of the use and interpretation of test scores by exploring the relationship between neuropsychological measures and theoretical attributes. The aim of this study was to explore the factor structure of a neuropsychological battery used in a study on Alzheimer's disease entitled "Brain connectivity and metacognition in persons with subjective cognitive decline" (SNF n.320030_182772, G.B. Frisoni). The battery is composed of 14 tests commonly used to assess cognitive functions affected in Alzheimer's disease (memory, processing speed, etc.). For this preliminary study data from 70 cognitively healthy adults were analyzed [...]