Preliminary Validation of Literacy-free Conceptualization Test Using Korean Proverb

In this study, we developed a proverb test as a measure for assessing higher-order cognitive functions in Korean older adults and explored its psychometric properties. Specifically, we aimed to investigate the applicability of the proverb test as a measure for conceptualization ability within the context of predominantly low-educated elderly population in South Korea. Twenty items were selected, taking into consideration familiarity, abstract thinking requirement, and item adequacy. The test included both open-ended and closed questions to ensure an applicability of the test among low-educated older adults. The results indicated satisfactory internal consistency for both versions of the test. Furthermore, the test demonstrated a high correlation with measures assessing higher-order thinking while exhibiting a relatively lower correlation with measures for memory and attention, thus confirming its convergent and discriminant validity. Also, significant associations were observed between the test scores and measure of daily living functions, suggesting that proverb test scores may be useful in predicting overall adaptive functioning. Additionally, literate and illiterate group showed significant differences in proverb test scores. These findings suggest that the proverb test can adequately be applied as a measure of conceptualization ability in the Korean older adults.