Older adults’ experience of neuropsychological assessments for dementia screening in South India: a qualitative study

Abstract

Background: In community settings, neuropsychological assessment is the most commonly employed method for early recognition of dementia. However, little is known about the experience and perspectives of older adults when they undertake neuropsychological assessments in low-and middle-income countries (LMICs), including India. Methods: We conducted semi-structured interviews for 11 individuals (aged between 64 and 88 years) who had undergone cognitive assessment in the CST International (Cognitive Stimulation Therapy- International) study and were free from dementia. The transcripts were analysed manually utilising Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis to develop key themes. Results: When data were analysed three superordinate themes (experiences related to the process, content and outcomes) each with a set of subordinate themes emerged. Conclusions: This study highlights the need for a thorough planning of pre-assessment briefing for equipping participants with adequate information related to the neuropsychological assessment: its indication, length of procedure, contents of the test, possible outcomes, medical implications of those outcomes, possible therapeutic options if diagnosed with lower cognitive function. We discuss our findings in relation to extant knowledge and explore issues clinicians should consider when conducting neuropsychological assessments in LMIC settings.