WMS–IV Wechsler Memory Scale

Psychometric tests have proven to be of immense significance in the neuropsychological industry. They play a vital role in measuring a person’s mental health and behavior capabilities. Consequently, these assessment tests provide actionable information to address and treat various mental illness the likes of dementia, dyslexia and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). There are multiple psychometric tests available in the market currently. Amongst the suite of popular and widely used psychometric tests is the Wechsler Memory Scale (WMS).

The Wechsler Memory Scale (WMS), designed to measure various memory functions in an individual, is a neuropsychological test. This WMS test can be administered to people of ages between sixteen and twenty. Like most psychometric tests, even the Wechsler Memory Scale assessment test has evolved and been improved over time. The most updated and current version of WMS is the fourth edition (WMS – IV), which was launched in 2009. WMS – IV is developed to be used with the WAIS-IV. The fifth version of Wechsler Memory Scale comprises of seven subtests including symbol span, general cognitive screener, spatial addition, design memory and logical memory one and two both, visual reproduction I and II and verbal paired associates I and II. The results of an individual’s performance are documented as the following five index scores:

1. Visual Memory
2. Immediate Memory
3. Auditory Memory
4. Visual Working Memory and
5. Delayed Memory

An optional cognitive exam, known as a brief cognitive status exam, has been included in The Wechsler Memory Scale’s fourth edition. This optional cognitive exam aids to evaluate global cognitive functioning in individuals with presumed memory deficits or those people who have been diagnosed with different other development, neural and psychiatric disorders such as learning disabilities or dementia. WMS’s efficiency and accuracy have been evident in its ability to differentiate clinical groups to distinguish the memory impaired clinical group from those with normal memory functioning.

Benefits of Wechsler Memory Scale-Fourth Edition
The fourth edition in the series of Wechsler Memory Scale, the latest and updated version is the most widely used scale for adult memory. This new edition of the memory test incorporates amendments to the three existing subtests and also includes four new subtests in response to the changing demographics, clinical needs, increased caseload, and new research.

The fourth version has multiple advantages against its former counterparts. Its flexible approach allows more flexible assessment according to individual client’s need and according to the examiner’s preference. It has configured subtests which obtain instant, delayed, auditory and visual memory index marks. Addressing to the clinical needs, WMS – IV has eliminated eight previous subtests. Furthermore, WMS fourth edition minimizes visual motor demands and reduces administration time.

WMS – IV has been successful in achieving the purpose of providing the most advanced and reliable measure of memory and results for catering the changing clinical conditions.