Validation of MoCA Test in Vietnamese Language for Cognitive Impairment Screening

Abstract

The goal of this study was to assess how the Vietnamese version of the MoCA test performed in a community-based sample of Vietnamese American (VA) older adults, an immigrant population with whom the MoCA test has not been validated. Forty-eight older adults were interviewed using a Vietnamese version of MoCA. Item analyses, and construct and criterion validity analyses were performed. We also correlated the MoCA score with individual characteristics, including age, sex, and education. Our findings indicate good psychometric applicability and internal reliability, as well as construct and criterion validity of this modification of the MoCA test. The test was found to be a reliable, and likely valid, instrument for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) screening within our study population. The study suggests several potential areas for improvement to enhance discriminating power of certain items and sub-tests, including the memory domain. The promising performance of a Vietnamese version of the MoCA test seen in this study has important practical implications for the screening of MCI among an important immigrant population in community settings.