A test of remote memory for use with Australian subjects

Memory impairment is commonly associated with ageing and is one of the most prominent clinical features of senile dementia. In contrast to normal elderly subjects, demented subjects show a relative preservation of remote memory; although unable to recall recent events, they are able to reproduce more distant recollections. This has been illustrated using a variety of remote memory tests. Most remote memory tests are, however, open to criticism due to the many methodological problems inherent in their design. This review examines some of the remote memory tests which are available for use in clinical and research settings. Directions for future research are discussed.