Feasibility of virtual Alzheimer's biomarker disclosure: Findings from an observational cohort

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Increased availability of Alzheimer's disease (AD) biomarker tests provides older adults with opportunities to seek out and learn results. We evaluated the feasibility of virtually returning AD biomarker results. Methods Trained study clinicians disclosed amyloid positron emission tomography (PET) results and provided dementia risk‐reduction counseling via televideo to cognitively unimpaired participants already enrolled in AD research (n = 99; mean age ± SD: 72.0 ± 4.8; 67% women; 95% White; 28% amyloid elevated). Results Our study demonstrated acceptable levels of retention (93%), compliance (98%), adherence (98%), clinician competence (97%), education comprehension (quiz scores 14/15), and virtual visit functionality (rating 9.4/10). Depression, anxiety, and suicidality remained low and did not differ by amyloid result. Discussion Virtual return of amyloid PET results to cognitively unimpaired research participants is feasible and does not result in increased psychological symptoms. Technological barriers for some participants highlight the need for flexibility. These findings support the use of televideo in AD biomarker disclosure, although our study sample and design have important limitations for generalizability.

Keywords

• alzheimer's
• amyloid
• biomarker disclosure
• feasibility
• telehealth