Using the Rey-Osterrieth and modified Taylor complex figures with older adults: a preliminary examination of accuracy score comparability.

Although considerable research has now shown that the Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure (ROCF) and its original companion figure, the Taylor Complex Figure (TCF), are "not" comparable measures of visuospatial learning and memory, recent studies have provided evidence to suggest that the Modified TCF (MTCF) is a comparable measure to the ROCF. The primary aim of the present study was to examine the comparability of ROCF and MTCF accuracy scores with older adults using the traditional incidental learning procedure. A secondary aim was to examine whether performance on the two figures showed comparable gender effects and relationships with age and education. Comparable recall performance, but not copy performance, was found for the two figures in this sample of older adults. No gender differences were found on either figure and similar relationships with age and education were reported for the two figures. These findings are discussed within the context of previous research with consideration given to the clinical implications of the findings and future research recommendations.