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Updated: Jun 14, 2026

Assessment of Age-related Changes in Cognitive Functions Using EmoCogMeter, a Novel Tablet-computer Based Approach
Published on: February 14, 2014
The assessment of changes in cognitive functioning: reliable change indices for neuropsychological instruments in the
Janine Stein1, Melanie Luppa, Elmar Brähler
1Department of Mental Health, Clinic of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Leipzig, Germany. Janine.Stein@medizin.uni-leipzig.de
Background/Aims:
The determination of meaningful cognitive change over time is essential for the diagnosis of dementia in the elderly. Reliable change indices (RCIs) represent a suitable methodology to assess clinically significant cognitive change. The purpose of this paper is to provide a systematic review of RCI scores in elderly persons for neuropsychological tests currently available.
Methods:
A comprehensive literature search was conducted. Longitudinal studies dealing with the assessment of RCIs for cognitive instruments and cognitively healthy older participants were reviewed. Quality of studies was determined using a standardized system of evaluating methodical quality.
Results:
A total of 11 studies met the inclusion criteria; half of the studies rated highly for methodical quality. RCI scores were summarized for a number of neuropsychological instruments.
Conclusion:
RCIs have important implications regarding the interpretation of change in test scores in older adults. Further assessment and standardization is needed for many neuropsychological instruments.
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