Assessing cognitive communication skills in dementia: a scoping review

Cognitive communication difficulties are a characteristic feature of dementia. These deficits have negative effects on all aspects of daily life. Yet, there are few options for standardized assessment of cognitive communication skills in people with dementia.

To review published cognitive-communication assessments to determine what psychometrically sound assessments exist that are applicable to all people with dementia.

A scoping review of the literature was conducted using an established scoping review model. Cognitive-communication assessments validated in English with people with dementia were sought. A comprehensive search of eight relevant electronic databases was undertaken. Two reviewers independently analysed and assessed the psychometric quality of instruments that met inclusion criteria.

Four cognitive-communication assessments were included in the review. Although psychometrically sound, none was suitable for administration at all stages of dementia. Only one was validated for different dementia types. None included subtests for evaluation of conversation ability, and none involved the evaluation of communication partners' communication.

There are limited options for standardized communication assessment for individuals with dementia and their communication partners. Directions for the development of new measures are provided to facilitate research and improve clinical practice.