Adaptation and Normalization of a Verbal Episodic Memory Test in French Sign Language

Launched by POITIERS UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL · Mar 24, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is focused on creating a memory test specifically designed for deaf individuals who use French Sign Language (LSF). Currently, there are very few tools available to assess memory in this population, which makes it difficult for doctors to diagnose conditions like Alzheimer's disease or to develop effective care plans. The goal of the study is to develop a reliable memory assessment that can help improve access to care for deaf patients. This new test will be based on a well-regarded memory evaluation tool and will be adapted to make it suitable for those who communicate using LSF.

To participate in the trial, individuals must be at least 18 years old, have severe to profound deafness (meaning they cannot hear sounds above 70 decibels), and primarily use French Sign Language. Participants will work with interpreters and help create a list of signs for the new test. It's important to note that people with certain medical histories, such as neurological or psychiatric conditions, will not be eligible for this study. Overall, this trial aims to provide a crucial resource that will enhance the understanding and care of cognitive health in the deaf community.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Person aged ≥ 18 yo
• • with severe or profound deafness (hearing loss ≥ 70 decibels)
• • whose main language is French Sign Language
• • able to consent in writing after a clear explanation of the procedure
• • affiliated to the French Healthcare system (Sécurité Sociale) through self or another person
• Non-inclusion criteria:
• • person with a medical history in neurology (stroke, traumatic brain injury, dementia) or psychiatry bipolar syndrom or schizophrenia that would not be medicated, severe depression)
• • persons with medical developmental backgroung (e.g genetic syndrome)
• • person with cancer history needing chemotherapy
• • person with a diagnosed and untreated sleeping trouble
• • person drinking \> 10 glasses of alcohol per week or using drugs on a daily basis
• • person with visual issues
• • person under 18yo or unable to take decisions for self
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • A score ≤ 20/28 or 17/28 at the MMS-LS test, depending on the schooling of the participant (20/28 for participants with a degree, 17/28 for participants without a degree)