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Maira Okada de Oliveira, MSc
Faculdade de Medicina - Universidade de São Paulo
São Paulo, Brazil
Studies show that in developing nations, detecting dementia could present a challenge since poor performance on cognitive tests may be associated with either dementia or limited education. Studies also have found that paper-based cognitive tests may be challenging to administer to those with low education levels. Dr. Maira Okada de Oliveira and colleagues will determine the accuracy of manual cognitive tests (that require subjects to name, remember and locate real objects that are hidden), paper-based and tablet-based cognitive tests to detect cognitive impairment in Brazilians with all levels of educational attainment. Preliminary results from Oliveira and colleagues’ work show that individuals with very low education are comfortable with the touch-response format, using a tablet. The study results may guide the selection of brief cognitive tests for the detection of cognitive impairment especially in people with very low education. If successful, the study results could help develop tools for early detection of dementia. Families facing Alzheimer’s or all other dementia now and in the future will benefit greatly from early detection, allowing for important care and planning. Furthermore, when we have new therapies, we will be in a better position to know who needs treatment at the earliest time point.
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