Objective:

To determine if semantic memory is a factor associated with cognitive impairment in older adults in Lima.

Method:

The Semantic Memory Assessment Battery for Older Adults (EMSEA), the Mini-mental State Examination (MMSE) and other instruments that were used as external criteria were applied. The sample consisted of 158 older adults from Metropolitan Lima between 60 and 95 years of age. EMSEA differentiates between a normal and clinical sample, with a sensitivity of 80% and a specificity of 100% for a cut-off point of 251. Concurrent validity is evidenced and a two-factor EMSEA model is demonstrated. Cronbach's Alpha value is .75 and Theta is .80.

Results:

Descriptive data indicated a 28% prevalence of cognitive impairment and a 23% low semantic memory level. The predictive model indicates that three areas of semantic memory are associated with cognitive impairment with an R2 of 25%, leaving the model established by: Verification, naming of drawings and analogies.

Conclusion:

It is concluded that the EMSEA battery presents evidence of criterion and construct validity, internal consistency and a predictive.

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