Neuropsychological tests used for dementia assessment in Japan: Current status

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the assessment tools dementia specialists use in clinical practice, reasons for their use and assessment-related factors.

Methods: A questionnaire survey was carried out from 15 September 2021 to 20 October 2021 among 1858 dementia specialists in Japan, with responses obtained via mail or using a Web form accessed via a Web address.

Results: Of the 1858 specialists who were sent the questionnaire, 574 responded, yielding a response rate of 32.2%. Almost all respondents stated that the main purposes of neuropsychological testing were to identify the pathophysiology and aid diagnosis. Most respondents identified behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia as important factors for assessment. The most commonly used tests were the Hasegawa Dementia Scale-Revised and Mini-Mental State Examination, often used as screening tools. The Mini-Mental State Examination, Clock Drawing Test and Cube Copying Test were common assessments carried out directly by specialists. Quality of life and burden of care were less commonly assessed.

Conclusions: Despite the main purpose of carrying out neuropsychological tests on dementia patients is to "understand the pathophysiology" and "aid in diagnosis," many assessment methods were chosen as screening methods carried out in a short time during clinic hours. The lack of evaluation of care burden and QOL, considered important by specialists, is an issue for the future in treating people with dementia, a life disability. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 102-109.

Keywords: activities of daily living; caregiver burden; dementia; questionnaire; survey.