Towards long-term tracking and detection of early dementia : a computerized cognitive test battery with gamification

Abstract

Effective diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment (MCI), in many cases preceding dementia, is important in determining the efficacy of dementia treatments. Inherent in the transition from normal ageing to MCI to and then to dementia is cognitive decline, which can be detected using multiple assessments over an extended period of time. Computerized cognitive tests arise as a promising way of long-term cognitive monitoring in home environment and supplementing clinical evaluation. Compared to conventional paper-and-pencil tests, they are cheaper, more repeatable, and easier to distribute and administer. Over the years, research efforts have been devoted to improve the validity, reliability and comprehensiveness of the computerized cognitive tests. However, it has long been omitted that the usability and entertainment aspects are also crucial to their overall effectiveness and user experience. To reduce drop-out rates and improve effectiveness of long-term cognitive monitoring, we present a first-of-its-kind gamified computerized cognitive test battery, called Virtual ADL+ House. It consists of a series of mini-games, each embedded a cognitive test and featured one of the daily living activities in the Lawton IADL. Virtual ADL+ House can be used to monitor cognitive functions in long-term, alert signs of cognitive decline and provide longitudinal data to facilitate clinical diagnosis. In focus group studies conducted with doctors and older adults, we received positive feedback on the usability and entertainment value of Virtual ADL+ House. We plan to evaluate the validity and reliability of it in subsequent studies.