AGE-DEPENDENT VERBAL-SEMANTIC ABILITIES IN WOMEN: AN ANALYSIS OF VERBAL ORIENTATION TEST RESULTS ACROSS DIFFERENT AGE GROUPS

Abstract

The menopausal transition represents a sensitive biological period in a woman’s life, characterized by significant hormonal changes that may affect cognitive functions. Verbal abilities are particularly vulnerable, including learning, memory, and word retrieval. Previous research suggests a mild but measurable decline in verbal fluency and semantic reasoning during perimenopause and postmenopause; however, findings are heterogeneous and often based on smaller samples.
Research Objectives: To examine the association between age and the level of verbal orientation in women across different age groups, with particular emphasis on the menopausal transition period.
Materials and Methods: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted between July 1, 2025, and January 31, 2026, on a sample of 393 women. Participants were divided into six age groups: ≤44, 45–49, 50–54, 55–59, 60–64, and ≥65 years. Verbal abilities were assessed using the Verbal Orientation Test (maximum score 18 points), which evaluates recognition of synonyms and antonyms. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and Scheffé post hoc testing.
Results and Discussion: The mean age of participants was 51.82 ± 6.90 years, and the mean test score was 6.72 ± 3.05 points. Statistically significant differences were found among age groups [F(5,387) = 4.547; p < 0.001]. The highest mean score was achieved by the ≤44 age group (M = 8.06), and the lowest by the 60–64 age group (M = 5.50). A gradual decline in verbal-semantic abilities was observed with increasing age, with a more pronounced decrease during the 45–54 age period and relative stabilization in the 55–59 age group. Scheffé analysis confirmed significant differences between the youngest group and the 50–54 and 60–64 age groups. Differences between the youngest and the oldest groups did not reach statistical significance, likely due to the smaller number of participants. Increased variability in older groups suggests heterogeneity in cognitive aging.
Conclusions: Verbal-semantic abilities significantly decline with increasing age, with more pronounced changes during the menopausal transition. The results confirm the need for systematic monitoring of cognitive functions in middle-aged and older women.
Recommendations: Longitudinal studies incorporating hormonal and relevant sociodemographic indicators are recommended to achieve a more comprehensive understanding of cognitive changes during the menopausal transition. In clinical practice, preventive programs aimed at preserving verbal abilities and overall cognitive health in women should be developed.