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. 1999 Jan;89(1):95-7.
doi: 10.2105/ajph.89.1.95.

Reading ability, education, and cognitive status assessment among older adults in Harlem, New York City

S M Albert  1 , J A Teresi
Affiliations

Reading ability, education, and cognitive status assessment among older adults in Harlem, New York City

S M Albert et al. Am J Public Health. 1999 Jan.

Abstract

Objectives: This study examined reported level of education and current reading ability as predictors of cognitive status among older African Americans in central Harlem, New York City.

Methods: A probability sample of 164 noninstitutionalized older African Americans was assessed. Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores were regressed on education and reading ability measures.

Results: Reading ability and educational attainment were significant, independent predictors of MMSE performance. Within any level of education, subjects whose grade-equivalent reading ability exceeded reported level of education scored significantly higher on the MMSE.

Conclusions: Reading ability may be useful in interpreting the results of cognitive screening among low-educated and minority groups.

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