Eric D. Rankin

Current marital functioning as a mediating factor in depression among spouse caregivers in dementia

Abstract A model of spousal caregiving was constructed in which current marital functioning was hypothesized to predict caregiver depression independent of the patients clinical status and caregiver characteristics including burden. The sample was comprised of 96 consecutive marital dyads seeking evaluation at a university-based cognitive disorders program. The results of path analysis supported a model in which current marital functioning was significantly and independently associated with the caregivers mental health. Specifically, spouse caregivers reporting low marital cohesion and satisfaction endorsed significantly more depressive symptoms. These findings supported the models central premise that relational losses are discretely related to the mental health of spouse caregivers and warrant consideration in the assessment and care of spouse caregivers.

Empirical comparison of alternate forms of the Boston Naming Test

Abstract Various short forms of the Boston Naming Test (BNT) are compared including an empirically derived 30-item form, odd and even items split-half forms, four 15-item forms, and a rationally derived 15-item form used in conjunction with the Consortium to Establish a Registry in Alzheimers Disease (CERAD). The present analysis was conducted using a sample of 320 individuals with diagnoses including dementia (n = 194), thought disorder (n = 46), depression (n = 16), general neuropsychiatric disorders (n = 12), and cerebral tumors (n = 52). Results indicated that all forms possess adequate, although variable internal consistency, and correlations between forms were reasonable. Average item difficulty indices also differed with the CERAD version being least desirable. Finally, classification rates were different by forms, indicating limitations on the extent to which the forms may be used interchangeably.

Semantic sensitivity for prose in patients with probable alzheimer's disease

Abstract This study examined the sensitivity of patients with probable Alzheimers Disease (AD) to the inherent semantic structure of prose. Patients and normal controls listened to prose passages and recalled the stories under immediate and delayed conditions. Subjects were also tested with a recognition format. Unlike controls and patients with mild AD, patients with severe AD were unable to differentiate high importance ideas from ideas of lower importance on free recall and recognition. These results suggest relative impairment of semantic processing at the encoding and consolidation process of memory in more advanced AD.

The visual reproduction subtest as a measure of visual perceptual/constructional functioning in dementia of the Alzheimer's type

Abstract Interpretation of performance on the Visual Reproduction (VR) subtest of the Wechsler Memory Scale-Revised (WMS-R; Wechsler, 1987) is potentially confounded by visual perceptual or constructional problems. In order to assess this potential confound, this study examined the performance of patients with Dementia of the Alzheimers Type (DAT), patients with right frontal-lobe lesions, and normal elderly controls in terms of ability to accurately match and copy the VR designs. Patients with DAT were significantly worse at matching and copying the designs relative to the two comparison groups. The results suggest that caution is warranted when interpreting the VR subtest as a measure of memory functioning in patients with DAT.

Preliminary Outcome Data on a Model Treatment Group for Codependence

Abstract A group treatment model was developed to assist individuals address intrapersonal and relational issues associated with codependence. The model consisted of twelve group sessions utilizing a set curriculum developed by the authors. Results indicated that patient perception of locus of control and codependency improved significantly by the end of treatment and that these gains continued to improve at a six-month follow up.

Symptom Reduction and Enhancement of Psychosocial Functioning Utilizing a Relational Group Treatment Program for Dependent/Codependent Population

Abstract A therapeutic group focusing on family of origin and current relationships was developed to treat psychiatric symptoms and improve psychosocial functioning. The treatment program was curriculum-based and consisted of twelve sessions. Sixty-nine clients were enrolled in one of the eight 12-week group programs. Results indicated a significant reduction in depressive and anxiety related symptoms as well as improved perceptions of locus of control and codependent behavior following participation. These changes were maintained at six-month follow up. Findings from this study suggest that a structured group focusing on patterns in current and past relationships may be a clinically efficacious and cost effective approach for treating both psychiatric symptoms and psychosocial impairment.

Controlling for constructional dysfunction with the visual reproduction subtest of the wechsler memory scale-revised in alzheimer's disease

Abstract The purpose of the present study was to investigate a method for quantifying the contribution of constructional skills on the Visual Reproduction subtest of the Wechsler Memory Scale-Revised in patients with Alzheimers disease (AD). To correct for constructional problems, a proportion score was created by dividing the subtest raw scores from standard administration by the total score obtained for copying the designs. Seventeen patients with probable AD were compared to 17 controls. Using the proportion score, one-way analysis of variance demonstrated that control subjects reproduced significantly more information at both immediate and delayed conditions and retained a greater percentage of information over the delay. The results of this study indicated that patients with AD showed greater visual memory impairment on the Visual Reproduction subtest as compared to control subjects independent of constructional skills.