Episodic Memory in Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment at Risk for Alzheimer’s Disease: Spanish Validation of the TYM-MCI

Background: Building on the validation of the Your Memory test for mild cognitive impairment in English speakers, this study adapted and validated the Memory Test for Mild Cognitive Impairment (TYM-MCI) for older Spanish-speaking adults, highlighting its potential utility for the early detection of amnestic mild cognitive impairment and cognitive profiles associated with increased risk of dementia. Methods: A total of 151 independently functioning adults aged 60 or older (Barthel Index 9–10) completed the TYM-MCI, the Addenbrooke’s Cognitive Examination-Revised (ACE-R-Ch), the Mini-Mental State Examination, and the original TYM. Analyses included ROC curves, correlation matrices, and principal component analysis (PCA). Results: The TYM-MCI exhibited strong psychometric properties (Cronbach’s α = 0.832; sensitivity = 81.7%; specificity = 47.8%). The optimal cut-off score was ≥24.5/30. Scores between 19 and 24.5 suggested probable mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Conclusions: The episodic memory components of this test are key cognitive features relevant to the modification and monitoring of early cognitive decline and are straightforward to administer. Notably, the TYM-MCI specifically assesses both visual and verbal episodic memory. It can be used alongside other assessments, such as the ACE-R or MMSE, to support the clinical evaluation of cognitive functioning in older adults. Clinically, it provides an early assessment and follow-up in individuals presenting with memory complaints, contributing to timely clinical decision-making in the context of cognitive decline.