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This research provides updated normative data for the Paired-Associate Learning Test (PALT) in the Italian population to enhance the assessment of episodic memory.

April 30, 2026Aging Clinical and Experimental Research0 citationsOpen Access

Updated Italian norms for the Paired-Associate Learning Test (PALT)

SZStefano Zago TRThomas Rasi EAEdoardo Nicolò Aiello

Key Points

This research provides updated normative data for the Paired-Associate Learning Test (PALT) in the Italian population to enhance the assessment of episodic memory.
Participants (N=317) completed the Paired-Associate Learning Test (PALT) with eight word pairs across three trials.
Regression-based normative data were derived using the Equivalent Score (ES) method.
Age and education levels were analyzed as predictors of PALT scores.
Age and education significantly predicted PALT scores, demonstrating the importance of demographic adjustments.
Thresholds and tolerance limits were established for contemporary Italian norms.
Updated regression-based norms enhance clinical assessments for episodic memory in neurodegenerative disorders.

Abstract

Verbal associative learning is a key component of episodic memory and is frequently impaired in the early phases of neurodegenerative brain disorders. The Paired-Associate Learning Test (PALT) test directly probes this function, and its clinical usefulness critically depends on the availability of contemporary, population-specific normative data. To provide updated, regression-based normative data for the Italian PALT. Participants (N = 317) were administered the PALT, consisting of eight semantically related and unrelated word pairs presented over three learning trials. Regression-based norms were derived in accordance with the Equivalent Score (ES) method. Age and education significantly predicted PALT scores. Up-to-date demographic adjustments, tolerance limits, and ES threshold were provided. This work delivers updated, regression-based Italian norms for the PALT to be employed for the assessment of episodic memory in patients with neurodegenerative brain disorders.

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