A score below 90 on the Wechsler Memory Scale may indicate which condition?

A score below 90 on the Wechsler Memory Scale may indicate which condition?

• A. Normal memory performance
• B. Mild cognitive impairment (MCI)
• C. Severe memory impairment
• D. Superior memory

Answer: (B)

The idea being tested is how to interpret standardized memory-test scores and what they suggest about cognitive status. On the Wechsler Memory Scale, scores are normed with a mean of about 100 and a standard deviation of about 15. A score below 90 means memory performance is more than one standard deviation below the average for someone of the same age, indicating noticeable memory weakness relative to peers. That level of impairment fits mild cognitive impairment, where memory troubles are present but not severe enough to disrupt daily life or meet criteria for dementia. Normal memory performance would cluster around the mean or higher; severe memory impairment would show much lower scores and more profound impact on functioning; superior memory would be well above average. Remember, a single score isn’t a diagnosis by itself; it’s a clue that should be considered alongside other assessments and clinical information.

The idea being tested is how to interpret standardized memory-test scores and what they suggest about cognitive status. On the Wechsler Memory Scale, scores are normed with a mean of about 100 and a standard deviation of about 15. A score below 90 means memory performance is more than one standard deviation below the average for someone of the same age, indicating noticeable memory weakness relative to peers. That level of impairment fits mild cognitive impairment, where memory troubles are present but not severe enough to disrupt daily life or meet criteria for dementia. Normal memory performance would cluster around the mean or higher; severe memory impairment would show much lower scores and more profound impact on functioning; superior memory would be well above average. Remember, a single score isn’t a diagnosis by itself; it’s a clue that should be considered alongside other assessments and clinical information.