[Christmas article: Copenhagen Christmas Cognitive Examination]

Introduction Motivation is important when administering cognitive tests. Routine cognitive testing may become trivial both for the examiner and the test subject when using tests that only incorporate neutral items. We hypothesized that a Christmas themed cognitive test could improve motivation for cognitive testing and might elicit positive emotional reactions. Methods We devised the Copenhagen Christmas Cognitive Examination (CCCE), a quickly administered test with ten items, all with Christmas themed content. The CCCE evaluates various important areas of cognition including anterograde and retrograde memory, visuoconstruction, naming and executive function. In this cross-sectional pilot study, we tested feasibility and further explored the possible emotional and motivational effects by administering a questionnaire with a 5-point Likert scale indicating agreement with statements regarding mood and motivation after testing. Results A total of 14 cognitively healthy participants (mean age 42 years (SD 12.3)) underwent testing with the CCCE. A high level of positive mood and motivation was present for most subjects after testing. Being in a Christmas mood after testing was significantly associated with higher test scores (Spearman's correlation coefficient 0.53, p = 0.019). Conclusion It was feasible to administer a Christmas themed cognitive test, and test subjects experienced positive emotional reactions after testing. Further testing in a non-healthy population is warranted. Funding none. Trial registration none.