Validity and reliability of a computerized cognitive function evaluation battery (CogEvo) as a screening tool

Abstract

Abstract Aim The aim of this study was to determine the validity and reliability of cognitive function evaluation battery, CogEvo, a recently developed computerized cognitive function evaluation battery, as a screening tool for decreased cognitive function. Methods The study sample comprised 123 (age: 57–97 years) community‐dwelling elderly people. They were required to perform five CogEvo tasks and complete two questions‐based neuropsychological tests, including the Mini‐Mental State Examination, so that the correlations could be analyzed. The validity and reliability of CogEvo were examined using factor analysis, MacDonald's omega reliability coefficient, logistic regression analysis, and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Results Exploratory factor analysis revealed the orientation/spatial cognitive function (orientation and spatial cognition) and attention/executive function (attention, memory, and execution) factors. Structural validity was supported by confirmatory factor analysis. All two‐factor‐based subtasks showed adequate internal consistency (MacDonald's omega ≥0.6). The total CogEvo score and two‐factor scores were significantly correlated with neuropsychological test results. Based on the total CogEvo score, the cognitively normal and cognitive decline groups were identified by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis with a moderate predictive performance. The cognitive decline group was well identified using the orientation/spatial cognitive function factor. Conclusions CogEvo is a valid and reliable screening tool for cognitive function evaluation. It proved useful in the early identification of cognitive decline in our study sample.

Keywords

• CogEvo
• cognitive decline
• computerized cognitive function evaluation battery
• dementia
• validity and reliability