Digital Technologies in Cognitive Disorders

The increasing percentage of patients affected by dementia calls for effective cognitive screening in healthcare in order to identify early signs of cognitive neurodegeneration which could possibly lead to early intervention. Characteristic of new Digitized Cognitive Assessment (DCA) is the ability to provide accurate measurement of more variables. Indeed, cognitive assessment using digital technology offers new opportunities to overcome the limitations of current assessments. The digital assessment can be applied in different settings including the clinic even together with “classical” neuropsychology assessment or at home. In addition to this, the assessment can be applied in supervised conditions, i.e., applied and explained by trained specialists or in unsupervised conditions in self-administered test. Several different computerized cognitive tests have been developed to detect cognitive decline. For AD and MCI in general, several specific tests have been developed including CANTAB, Cogstate, and NIH toolbox. ‘Cognitive training’ is defined as an intervention consisting of repeated practice on standardized exercises for the purpose of benefiting cognitive function. Computer-based cognitive training (CCT), including exercises, virtual reality, and gaming, offers highly accessible, low-cost, standardized interventions. Many studies demonstrated significant benefit in specific domains of cognitive functions in older adults; additionally, computerized and online cognitive training in adults without dementia may improve daily functioning and psychological well-being. Sensory and motor changes play an important role in cognitive decline. Mobile and wearable digital technology assessing changes in mobility and daily function represents a growing area of interest for researchers. Other interesting topics are analyses on voice, ocular movement and fine motor dexterity, sleep disorders, and autonomic dysfunction that can now be evaluated using small sensors and mobile applications. Also, data coming from phones and mental health applications could generate important data for understanding the daily relevance of cognitive deficits. Further research is needed in this area, as the use of GPS sensors and metrics coming from daily personal mobile phones definitively needs an adequate regulation and the development of specific privacy policies concerning personal data.