Computer and tablet assessments of executive function in youth with Down syndrome: feasibility and predictors of performance

Abstract

Background

Feasibility of direct assessments is at the forefront of preparation for future clinical trials targeting cognition and executive functioning for individuals with Down syndrome (DS). This study aimed to assess feasibility and predictors of task completion for computer-facilitated executive function assessments in youth with DS.

Methods

Participants were 77 individuals with DS 6 to 19 years old. Five computer/tablet-based assessments of executive function were administered. Overall cognitive abilities were directly assessed, and caregivers reported on adaptive behaviours.

Results

Feasibility of the measures ranged from 33.8 − 75.3%. Participants able to complete each computer/tablet assessment were generally older and had higher adaptive skill levels and higher cognitive abilities compared to those who could not complete the tasks. Chronological age and adaptive behaviours emerged as significant unique contributors to variance of computer/tablet assessment completion.

Conclusion

Understanding developmental skills that support computer-facilitated assessment completion is important for evaluating the appropriateness of these assessments in individuals with DS. Strategies for increasing feasibility and suggestions for modifications to computer/tablet assessments are discussed.

Keywords:

• down syndrome
• trisomy 21
• cognition
• executive function
• outcome measures
• feasibility

Acknowledgement

The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health. This research would not have been possible without the contributions of the participating families and the community support.

Disclosure statement

The authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose.

Additional information

Funding

This manuscript was prepared with support from the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development of the National Institutes of Health (R01 HD093754, T32 HD007489, and P50 HD105353) and the Jack H Rubinstein Foundation.