A screening instrument for language in older people (Barnes Language Assessment)

This paper describes the development of a clinically viable tool for the as sessment of language and associated cognitive skills in the older populatio n which was instigated by the SIC Psychiatry of Old Age (South of England). A series of sub-tests is described. Data from normal older people is used to establish preliminary means and lower normal limits as a guide to distin guishing performance associated with normal age-related change from perform ance associated with pathology. The importance of allowing for the effects of normal age-related changes on language processing is illustrated. Data f rom older people with pathology attending clinics and hospital departments is also presented. Quantitative and qualitative language profiling is outli ned. Data analysis suggests that the Barnes Language Assessment is able to profile language skills and difficulties. Indications for further research are discussed.