Memory Changes in the Benton Visual Retention Test Between Ages 70 and 75

The influences of education and activity on memory of Japanese older adults were investigated. The Benton Visual Retention Test was given to 302 individuals (145 men and 157 women) aged 69 to 71 (average age 70) living in a suburb of Tokyo. Participants were retested 5 years later (average age 75). Memory as evaluated by Benton correct scores declined in both men and women during the 5 years. The influence of the first time Benton score, education, activity, and sex on the second-time Benton score was analyzed by multiple regression analysis. The second Benton score was strongly influenced by the initial score. Level of education and activity contributed to memory after 5 years. No difference in the magnitude of memory changes was found between men and women. The first time Benton score by education term showed a weak but negative contribution.