Mental Health, Cognitive Function, and the MSVT in Older Adults
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Investigating Mental Health, Cognitive Function, and use of the Medical Symptom Validity Test in Older Adults: A Retrospective and Prospective Cohort Study
IRAS ID
363146
Contact name
Jonathan Evans
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Glasgow
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
0000, NA
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 5 months, 29 days
Research summary
As people grow older, they may experience difficulties with memory and thinking. Sometimes these difficulties are caused by conditions such as dementia. In other cases, memory performance may be affected by mental health conditions like depression or anxiety, physical health problems, or side effects of medication. Psychologists often use “performance validity tests” to check whether someone is applying their best effort during memory assessments. These tests help to show whether poor performance is due to brain-related memory loss or whether other factors may be playing a role.
One commonly used performance validity test is the Medical Symptom Validity Test (MSVT). However, the MSVT was originally designed for younger adults and people without complex health needs. It is not yet clear how well it works for older adults who may have a combination of mental health conditions, physical health issues, or be taking multiple medications.
This study will examine how older adults perform on the MSVT, with the aim of improving how psychologists interpret these test results. Participants will be adults aged 60 and above, divided into three groups:
Those diagnosed with dementia.
Those with mental health conditions but no memory concerns.
Those who are worried about their memory but do not have dementia.
The study will look at how MSVT results differ between these groups and explore which factors (such as depression, anxiety, physical health, and medication) are linked to unexpected or “failed” test results.
To do this, the study will combine existing data with new information collected from older adults currently receiving NHS mental health support. Participants will answer health questions and complete the MSVT, which involves remembering pairs of words.
The findings will help psychologists understand how mental and physical health affect memory testing in older adults. This will support more accurate assessments, leading to better advice, care, and treatment for older people with memory concerns.
REC name
South Central - Hampshire A Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/SC/0385
Date of REC Opinion
6 Jan 2026
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion