Evaluation of multidimensional neurocognitive function using a tablet personal computer: Test–retest reliability and validity in community‐dwelling older adults

Abstract

Aim This study sought to confirm the test–retest reliability and validity of the National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology functional assessment tool (NCGG‐FAT), a newly developed assessment of multidimensional neurocognitive function using a tablet personal computer (PC). Methods This study included 20 community‐dwelling older adults (9 females, aged 65–81 years). Participants were administered the NCGG‐FAT twice, separated by approximately 30 days to determine test–retest reliability. To test the validity of the measure, participants underwent established neurocognitive measurements, including memory, attention, executive function, processing speed and visuospatial function within a week from the first administration of the NCGG‐FAT. Results Test–retest reliability was in an acceptable range for each component of the NCGG‐FAT, with intraclass correlation coefficients ranging from 0.764 to 0.942. Each task in the NCGG‐FAT showed a moderate to high correlation with scores on widely‐used conventional neurocognitive tests (r = 0.496 to 0.842). Conclusion We found that the NCGG‐FAT using a tablet PC was reliable in a sample of community‐dwelling older adults. The NCGG‐FAT might be useful for cognitive screening in population‐based samples and outcomes, enabling assessment of the effects of intervention on multidimensional cognitive function among older adults. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2013; 13: 860–866.