Speaker
Description
Recent methodological developments have contributed to a significant advance in computerised neuropsychological instruments and procedures, including those accessible through web-based platforms. We recently developed Auto-GEMS, an open-access, web-based, self-administered screening test in Italian. It allows a quick assessment of an individual’s cognitive state and cognitive reserve. Auto-GEMS measures cognitive functioning by using eleven items similarly to the remote (phone or video-call) version (Tele-GEMS) and to the in-person paper and pencil version (GEMS) of the same screening. We collected normative data on a large sample of 1308 participants (age range 18-93), which were then used to investigate psychometric properties and regression models on demographic variables to derive clinical cut-offs. The psychometric properties of Auto-GEMS have shown good internal consistency, test-retest reliability and convergent validity. This short and user-friendly tool has a number of potential applications. For instance, it can be useful in clinical practice to monitor the cognitive profile of patients or vulnerable individuals, but it can also be used in research studies for screening participants. The testing materials and the data collected are freely available on the Internet along with a web app to visualise the test outcome in comparison with the normative data.
