Screening for Cognitive Impairment and Dementia Among Older People in Custody: A Systematic Review

Despite the growing number of older and aging people in custody across many countries, and corresponding vulnerability for neurocognitive issues, there has been limited research into the efficacy of cognitive assessment and dementia screening tools in correctional settings. The purpose of this study was to synthesize recent empirical research investigating dementia (and cognitive impairment) in older people in custody using screening tools. A systematic review methodology was adopted, with reporting guided by the PRISMA framework. This included a systematic search of four databases (PsycINFO, MedLine, PubMed, and Academic Search Complete) and handsearching of reference lists of eligible studies. A total of 9 peer-reviewed publications were included. All studies were from high income countries, including the United States (n = 2), Germany (n = 2), Canada (n = 1), England and Wales (n = 2), Australia (n = 1), and France (n = 1). These studies were synthesized according to the following themes: (1) use of screening tools with modification for the correctional setting; (2) use of screening tools without modification for the correctional setting; and, (3) innovative advances in cognitive screening tools and practices for correctional settings. This review identified several cognitive assessment and dementia screening tools that have been used in custodial settings. These tools can help in the early identification of dementia (or cognitive impairment) among older people in custody and, thus, inform the initiation of supports and strategies to manage those at risk. More research is needed to evaluate the performance of these tools compared with a diagnostic assessment.