Inspection method and device for assessing deterioration of cognitive function
The described method and apparatus facilitate standardized, accurate online evaluation of cognitive decline by minimizing examiner intervention and providing immediate feedback, enhancing diagnostic accuracy for various dementias.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- JP2025072728
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2023-04-26
- Filing Date
- 2025-04-24
- Publication Date
- 2025-07-30
AI Technical Summary
Current diagnostic methods for mild cognitive impairment lack standardization and accuracy in evaluating cognitive decline beyond memory issues, particularly for dementias other than Alzheimer's, and require significant examiner intervention.
A test method and apparatus that provides an explicit user interface for online cognitive decline evaluation, allowing users to directly participate with minimal examiner intervention, and includes a processor to calculate scores, classify neurocognitive categories, and evaluate cognitive decline based on test item performance.
Enables accurate, user-friendly online evaluation of cognitive decline with immediate result confirmation and tracking, improving diagnostic precision and enabling prompt preventive measures.
Smart Images

Figure 2025111660000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present invention relates to a test method and apparatus for evaluating cognitive decline.
Background Art
[0002] As the aging society continues, the number of dementia patients is increasing rapidly. However, there is no treatment for dementia. Therefore, the most innovative measure against dementia is to detect mild cognitive impairment, which is highly likely to develop into dementia, at an early stage and perform preventive treatment. Mild cognitive impairment refers to the state of a high-risk group in the pre-dementia stage. It has been reported that about 10 to 15% of patients with mild cognitive impairment develop dementia.
[0003] However, there is no standardized diagnostic method for mild cognitive impairment, and doctors diagnose patients face-to-face and comprehensively examine and judge the patient's condition. Conventional tests for evaluating cognitive decline are mainly composed of tests for evaluating memory, and are effective in evaluating Alzheimer's dementia characterized by memory decline. However, there is a problem that the accuracy decreases when evaluating other dementias characterized by cognitive decline other than memory.
[0004] The background art described above is technical information that the inventor possessed for deriving the present invention or acquired in the process of deriving the present invention, and is not necessarily prior art publicly disclosed to the general public before the filing of the present invention.
Prior Art Documents
Patent Documents
[0005]
Patent Document 1
Summary of the Invention
Problems to be Solved by the Invention
[0006] One problem of the present invention is to provide a user interface that is explicit and easy to understand during an online test for evaluating cognitive decline.
[0007] One problem of the present invention is to enable a user to directly intervene in and perform a test for evaluating cognitive decline online, while minimizing the intervention of the examiner.
[0008] One problem of the present invention is to immediately confirm the test results after the completion of a test for evaluating cognitive decline online, and to enable tracking by checking the stored past results.
[0009] The problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to the problems described above, and other problems and advantages of the present invention not mentioned can be understood from the following description, and will be more clearly understood in the embodiments of the present invention. Furthermore, it will be understood that the problems and advantages to be solved by the present invention can be realized by the means and combinations thereof shown in the claims.
Means for Solving the Problems
[0010] A test method for evaluating cognitive decline according to an embodiment of the present invention is a test method for evaluating cognitive decline executed by a processor of a test device for evaluating cognitive decline, including: a test step of examining how well missions presented for each of a plurality of test items for a user are completed, and calculating test scores for each of the plurality of test items; a category classification step of classifying at least one of the plurality of test items into any one of a plurality of neurocognitive categories; and an evaluation step of evaluating whether there is cognitive decline in the neurocognitive category based on the test scores for the test items classified into the neurocognitive category.
[0011] An inspection device for evaluating cognitive function decline according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a processor and a memory operably connected to the processor and storing at least one code executed by the processor. When executed via the processor, the memory causes the processor to inspect how well a mission presented to the user for each of a plurality of inspection items is completed, execute an inspection process for calculating inspection scores for each of the plurality of inspection items, execute a category classification process for classifying at least one of the plurality of inspection items into any one of a plurality of neurocognitive categories, and execute an evaluation process for evaluating whether there is a decline in cognitive function in the neurocognitive category based on the inspection scores for the inspection items classified into the neurocognitive category. It can store code to do so.
[0012] In addition, it is possible to further provide other methods for implementing the present invention, other systems, and a computer-readable recording medium storing a computer program for executing the method.
[0013] Other aspects, features, and advantages other than those described above will become apparent from the following drawings, claims, and detailed description of the invention.
Effects of the Invention
[0014] According to the present invention, by providing an explicit and easy-to-understand user interface during an online inspection for evaluating cognitive function decline, an elderly user can perform an inspection for evaluating cognitive function decline without difficulty.
[0015] Also, during an online inspection for evaluating cognitive function decline, the user can directly intervene to execute the inspection and minimize the intervention of the examiner, thereby improving the inspection accuracy for the user.
[0016] In addition, after the inspection for online evaluation of cognitive function decline is completed, the inspection results can be immediately confirmed, and the stored past results can be confirmed and tracked, so that a prompt and accurate diagnosis and preventive measures can be presented to the patient.
[0017] The effects of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[0018]
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Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention
[0019] The advantages and features of the present invention, and the method for achieving them, will become clear by referring to the embodiments described in detail together with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments presented below, and can be implemented in various different forms, and should be understood to include all conversions, equivalents, and alternatives included in the spirit and technical scope of the present invention. The embodiments presented below are provided to complete the disclosure of the present invention and to fully inform those with ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the present invention pertains of the scope of the invention. In the description of the present invention, if it is determined that a specific description of related known technologies may impede the gist of the present invention, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.
[0020] The terms used in this application are merely used to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention. Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this application, terms such as "including" or "having" are used to specify the presence of the features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in this specification, and it should be understood that the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof is not precluded in advance. Terms such as first, second, etc. can be used to describe various components, but the components should not be limited by the above terms. The above terms are only used for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.
[0021] Furthermore, in this application, a "unit" can be a hardware component such as a processor or a circuit and / or a software component executed by a hardware component such as a processor.
[0022] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. When describing with reference to the accompanying drawings, the same or corresponding components will be given the same drawing numbers, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.
[0023] FIG. 1 is an exemplary diagram of an inspection environment for evaluating cognitive function decline according to this embodiment. Referring to FIG. 1, an inspection environment 1 for evaluating cognitive function decline can include an inspection device 100 (hereinafter referred to as the inspection device) for evaluating cognitive function decline, a user terminal 200, and a network 300.
[0024] The inspection device 100 can execute an inspection process of inspecting how well a mission presented for each of a plurality of inspection items for a user is performed and calculating inspection scores for each of the plurality of inspection items. In this embodiment, the inspection process can be expressed as inspection steps in the claims described later.
[0025] In this embodiment, the inspection device 100 can execute an inspection process including a first inspection process to a tenth inspection process.
[0026] The first inspection process can include a process of executing an inspection for a first inspection item that evaluates how well a word belonging to a predetermined presentation category is spoken within a limited time (for example, 30 seconds) and a drawing of a pattern instructed within the limited time is performed, and calculating a first inspection score. Here, the first inspection item can include a fluency test.
[0027] The fluency test can be performed to measure the cognitive flexibility that constitutes the executive function. It can be said that the fluency test is an examination that evaluates to what extent cognitive flexibility is naturally calculated within a limited time. The fluency test can include a language fluency test that gives a category task and a spelling task within a given time and calculates as many words as possible, and a visual perception fluency test that draws as many figures as possible by connecting given points. Language fluency requires both language and executive function, and patients with frontotemporal dementia and progressive non-fluent aphasia often tend to show significant impairment in both types of language fluency and tasks.
[0028] The first test process can include a process of performing a test on a first test item that evaluates to what extent the utterance of words corresponding to a given presentation category is accomplished within a first time limit and calculating a first test score. Here, the first - 1 test item can include a language fluency test. From this, the first test process can include a process of performing a language fluency test on the user and calculating a first test score.
[0029] The differences between the fluency test included in the first test process according to this embodiment and the conventional fluency test can be as follows. In the conventional fluency test, the examiner wrote down the words spoken by the user on the test paper. On the other hand, in the fluency test according to this embodiment, the content spoken by the user is recorded using a voice recognition module (not shown), converted into text in real time, and then based on this, a fluency evaluation model is applied to evaluate the degree of the user's language fluency. By weighting in the process of converting to text using the voice recognition module, it is possible to prevent the user's response from being inaccurately texturized. The words that the user has to respond with are words corresponding to a specific category, such as animals, fruits, clothes, etc., and any category can be possible as long as it can include a plurality of noun words.
[0030] The process of scoring and interpreting the fluency test included in the first inspection process is as follows. The number of words responded during the first predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) can be utilized as the score. It is possible to count and score not only the total number of words spoken during the first predetermined time but also the number of words responded in units of the second predetermined time (for example, various times such as 5 seconds). For the number of words responded in the first half (for example, up to 15 seconds) of the first predetermined time, a first weight can be assigned for scoring, and for the number of words responded in the second half (for example, from 16 to 30 seconds) of the first predetermined time, a second weight can also be assigned for scoring. Here, the first weight can be generated by multiplying the number of words responded by a first value (for example, 2), and the first value is not fixed at 2 but can be any one of the numbers between 1.5 and 2. Also, the second weight can be generated by multiplying the number of words responded by a second value (for example, 1.5), and the second value is not fixed at 1.5 but can be any one of the numbers between 1.5 and 2.
[0031] The second inspection process can be executed after the execution of the first inspection process is completed. The second inspection process includes a process of informing clues of a predetermined category to learn words or pictures and evaluating how much of the learned words or pictures are remembered after a predetermined time (for example, 20 minutes) has passed, and calculating a second inspection score. Here, the second inspection item can include a language clue memory test.
[0032] The formation of long-term memory including episodic memory can be formed through the processes of 1) memorization or encoding, 2) storage and retention, and 3) retrieval. Memory evaluation can grasp the presence or absence of damage, the degree of damage, or the characteristics of damage of episodic memory based on a detailed and comprehensive evaluation for these three steps. By determining whether it is a retrieval failure or a problem of memory strategy through a language clue memory test, the memory function can be accurately grasped. Furthermore, the language clue memory test can have diagnostic value in identifying the type of dementia.
[0033] In this embodiment, the second inspection process can include a second - 1 inspection process and a second - 2 inspection process.
[0034] The second - 1 inspection process can include a process of performing an inspection on a second - 1 inspection item that evaluates to what extent the ability to learn words or pictures by being informed of clues of a predetermined category is achieved, and calculating a second - 1 inspection score. Here, the second - 1 inspection item can include a learning inspection among the language clue memory inspections. Thus, the second - 1 inspection process can include a process of performing a learning inspection among the language clue memory inspections on the user and calculating a second - 1 inspection score.
[0035] The second - 2 inspection process can be executed after the execution of the second - 1 inspection process is completed and a predetermined time has elapsed. In this embodiment, other inspection processes can be executed from the time when the execution of the second - 1 inspection process is completed to a predetermined time. For example, after the execution of the second - 1 inspection process is completed, instead of executing the second - 2 inspection process, after the execution of the second - 1 inspection process is completed and the third inspection process is executed, the second - 2 inspection process can be executed.
[0036] The second - 2 inspection process can include a process of performing an inspection on a second - 2 inspection item that evaluates to what extent the words or pictures learned in the second - 1 inspection process are remembered after a predetermined time has elapsed, and calculating a second - 2 inspection score. Here, the second - 2 inspection item can include a recognition inspection among the language clue memory inspections. Thus, the second - 2 inspection process can include a process of performing a recognition inspection among the language clue memory inspections on the user and calculating a second - 2 inspection score.
[0037] In the language cue memory test included in the second test process according to this embodiment, short-term memory and long-term memory can be formed through the processes of 1) memorization or encoding, 2) storage and retention, and 3) recall. Also, based on a detailed and comprehensive evaluation of the above three processes, a memory evaluation can be performed, including the presence or absence of damage to short-term memory, the degree or characteristics of the damage, etc. Through the language cue memory test according to this embodiment, the memory function can be accurately grasped, and the diagnostic value can be ensured when evaluating the type of dementia. Here, being able to accurately grasp the memory function can include grasping whether it is a problem of recall failure or a problem of memory strategy, etc.
[0038] The differences between the language cue memory test included in the second test process according to this embodiment and the conventional language cue memory test can be as follows. The conventional language cue memory test can be said to be a test that calls multiple words or pictures and checks how many words can be reproduced. However, the language cue memory test according to this embodiment provides a cue indicating the category to which the word belongs to conduct learning, and can ask questions while indicating the category to which the word belongs even in free recall.
[0039] Through the language cue memory test included in the second test process according to this embodiment, the normal group, mild cognitive impairment, and the normal group and Alzheimer's disease dementia can be evaluated. The language cue memory test according to this embodiment can show a significant correlation with the gray matter volume of the parahippocampus, which is a brain region related to the memory of illustrations. Therefore, the language cue memory test according to this embodiment can accurately evaluate language memory ability in a short time.
[0040] In this embodiment, the language cue memory test included in the second test process can be developed into a word interference memory test. The word interference memory test can be said to be a language memory test that measures recent memory based on the list-learning paradigm. The list-learning paradigm is a paradigm widely used for recent memory evaluation and can usually be configured by a procedure of memorizing a series of word lists and then recognizing or reproducing them. The word interference memory test can first measure the ability to recognize the learned words (maximum learning amount) after the first word list (list A, hereinafter referred to as the first list) is presented in reverse. Next, a new word list (list B, hereinafter referred to as the second list) that is semantically associated with the first word list (list A) is presented, and the ability to recognize the newly learned words (interference suppression) can be measured. When learning and recalling the second list, the first list learned in the previous step will affect the performance of the word interference memory test while causing semantic interference, which can be called proactive semantic interference. It is understood that proactive semantic interference is caused by problems in the characteristic memory storage and retrieval processes in Alzheimer's dementia and is known as an important cognitive marker for predicting very early Alzheimer's dementia. The word interference memory test can be configured to sensitively detect possible memory problems manifested in early Alzheimer's disease dementia by measuring the ability to suppress proactive semantic interference and distinguish new information, together with the maximum learning amount.
[0041] The conventional inspection, the LASSI-L (Loewenstein-Acevedo Scales for Semantic Interference and Learning), reproduces a total of 15 words that fall into one of three semantic categories. However, the word interference memory test according to this embodiment reduces the total number of words to be memorized to 8, taking into account the overall educational background and daily functional level of the elderly in Korea. Also, the concepts of a shopping list and a shopping basket, which are familiar to the elderly in Korea, are applied, and it is composed of concrete words that people are familiar with. Furthermore, in order to enable easy scoring and quantification in a digital environment, instead of the reproduction paradigm (the method of directly recalling and speaking the words to be memorized) used in the conventional test, a recognition paradigm (the method of judging whether the presented word is the memorized word by looking at it) is applied. Also, at the time of recognition of the second list, it is devised so that proactive semantic interference can be measured even within the recognition paradigm by presenting as non-target words that the words included in the first list must be excluded.
[0042] The scoring process and interpretation of the word interference memory test are as follows. First, the recognition score for the first list, the number of correct "yes" (true positive) responses, and the number of correct "no" (true negative) responses can be calculated. Here, the recognition score is one embodiment, and it can be calculated by subtracting a reference value (e.g., 4) from the combined value of the number of correct "yes" (true positive) responses and the number of correct "no" (true negative) responses. Second, the recognition score for the second list, the number of correct "yes" (true positive) responses, the number of correct "no" (true negative) responses, and the number of false positive errors can be calculated. Third, the total time required for the word interference memory test can be calculated. As a result of the scoring of the word interference memory test, it can be evaluated that the higher the overall recognition score, the better the language's up-to-date memory ability. The higher the recognition score for the first list, the higher the maximum learnable language memory ability can be evaluated. The higher the recognition score for the second list, the better the ability to suppress proactive interference can be evaluated. The more false positive errors for the second list, the more vulnerable to the influence of proactive semantic interference can be interpreted.
[0043] The third test process can be executed after the execution of the second - 1 test process is completed. The third test process includes performing a test on a third test item that evaluates how accurately and quickly any number that matches the presented symbol image can be selected within a predetermined time limit (e.g., 45 seconds) when looking at the presented symbol image, and calculating a third test score. Here, the third test item can include a symbol - number matching test. Thus, the third test process can include a process of performing a symbol - number matching test on the user and calculating a third test score.
[0044] The processing speed belonging to the execution function can be evaluated by quickly and accurately skimming visual information and identifying it in order. The symbol-digit matching test according to this embodiment can measure visual-motor processing speed, short-term visual memory learning ability, cognitive flexibility, attention, concentration, and synchronization. The symbol-digit matching test is a test in which, looking at the symbols displayed in the center of the screen, one has to find and touch the number associated with the above-mentioned symbols from the number board at the bottom of the screen. A total of n symbols are alternately presented as the symbols displayed in the center of the screen, and the numbers presented at the bottom are associated with one symbol.
[0045] The differences between the symbol-digit matching test included in the third test process according to this embodiment and the conventional symbol-digit writing test can be as follows. The conventional symbol-digit matching test is implemented in a paper-pen test method, in which, looking at the number-symbol table connected at the top of the paper, one handwrites the symbol matching the corresponding number in the blank under the number written in the response part at the bottom. The symbol-digit matching test according to this embodiment is a method in which one of the symbols within the symbol set is displayed in the center of the screen, and one touches the number matching the symbol in the response part where the number-symbol is connected below it. The method for generating the symbol set displayed in the center of the screen is as follows. The symbol can be generated by a combination of four vertices that can be formed in a square shape and all straight lines and curves passing through the midpoints of the four vertices. Since the conventional symbol-digit writing test creates answers using a writing instrument, writing ability may be required in some cases. However, the symbol-digit matching test according to this embodiment can focus on the function of processing visual information. The symbols used in the symbol-digit matching test according to this embodiment consider the copyright of existing symbols and cannot be verbalized, and simple newly created symbols can be applied. In the initial questions, it can be configured to select symbols that are close in distance and arranged at an easy difficulty level. As one progresses to the later questions, it can be configured to search for all symbols to increase the difficulty level.
[0046] The scoring process and interpretation of the symbol-digit matching test included in the third inspection process are as follows. The indicators utilized for scoring can include: 1) the number of digits touched within the given time, 2) the number of digits touched that are connected to the symbol displayed in the center of the screen within the given time, 3) the number of digits touched that are not connected to the symbol displayed in the center of the screen within the given time, and 4) the average time and standard deviation required to touch each digit button.
[0047] The fourth inspection process can be executed after the execution of the second - 2 inspection process is completed. The fourth inspection process can include a process of learning a predetermined presented image and performing an inspection on a fourth inspection item that evaluates how well the learned presented image is remembered after a predetermined time (for example, 20 minutes) has elapsed, and calculating a fourth inspection score. Here, the fourth inspection item can include a visual schematic memory test.
[0048] The Free and Cued Selective Reminding Test developed by Buschke (1984) is a language memory test that provides cues related to categories of words, generates associations for recall during the learning process, and utilizes them during reproduction. Memory tests based on traditional free recall tasks cannot distinguish between a decrease in efficiency and impairment of memory storage due to damage to memory structures, such as the use of inefficient strategies during the memory process and a decrease in processing capacity. Also, rather than the poor performance of the free recall task being a characteristic of dementia, similar results can be observed in aging and depression. However, impairment in the cued recall task can be characteristic of the early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. Only by including the process of categorizing multiple words into one semantic cluster and immediately reproducing them during the learning process, which is the encoding step, can we prevent a decrease in the efficiency of the encoding process and detect the problem of memory decline itself due to abnormalities in memory structures. Memory tests using such cued recall tasks mostly use word stimuli and semantic cues. However, picture stimuli can evaluate the visual perception ability of patients and are more familiar and accessible stimuli for illiterate elderly people compared to word stimuli. In the visual schematic memory test according to this embodiment, a visual language memory task is configured using picture stimuli, and the efficiency of memory is enhanced using picture stimuli and schematic cues. As a result of the research, the immediate free recall in the visual schematic memory test according to this embodiment is a task that successfully differentiates three groups: normal, mild cognitive impairment, and Alzheimer's disease. The learning task most successfully distinguished Lewy body dementia from other groups in terms of the attribute of visual recognition. In the visual schematic memory test according to this embodiment, differences between groups were well represented in a small test that is more affected by encoding than by memory storage and retention, such as learning, immediate cued recall, and immediate free recall.
[0049] In this embodiment, the fourth test process can include a fourth - 1 test process and a fourth - 2 test process.
[0050] The 4-1 inspection process can be executed after the execution of the 2-2 inspection process is completed. The 4-1 inspection process includes a process of presenting a default first presentation image and inputting visual perception stimuli through a process of grasping the number of colors in the first presentation image, and can include a process of calculating the 4-1 inspection score. Here, the 4-1 inspection item can include a learning inspection among visual diagram memory inspections. Thereby, the 3-1 inspection process can include a process of performing a learning inspection among visual diagram memory inspections on the user and calculating the 4-1 inspection score.
[0051] The 4-2 inspection process can be executed after the execution of the 4-1 inspection process is completed and a predetermined time has elapsed. In the present embodiment, other inspection processes can be executed from the time when the execution of the 3-1 inspection process is completed to a predetermined time. For example, after the execution of the 4-1 inspection process is completed, instead of executing the 4-2 inspection process, the 5th inspection process to the 7th inspection process can be executed first, and then the 4-2 inspection process can be executed for the first time. In the present embodiment, the execution procedure of the inspection process can be as follows. First, execute the 1st inspection process, then execute the 2-1 inspection process, then execute the 3rd inspection process, then execute the 2-2 inspection process, then execute the 4-1 inspection process, then execute the 5th inspection process to the 7th inspection process in sequence, then execute the 4-2 inspection process, then execute the 3-2 inspection process, and then execute the 8th inspection process to the 10th inspection process in sequence.
[0052] In the present embodiment, it is disclosed that the 2-2 inspection process must be executed after the execution of the 3rd inspection process is completed, and the 4-2 inspection process must be executed after the execution of the 7th inspection process is completed, but it is not limited thereto. That is, the 2-2 inspection process and the 4-2 inspection process can also be executed after the execution of any one of the 3rd process to the 10th inspection process is completed.
[0053] The 4-2 inspection process can include a process of performing an inspection on a 4-2 inspection item that evaluates how well the presented image learned in the 4-1 inspection process is remembered after a predetermined time has elapsed, and calculating a 4-2 inspection score. Here, the 4-2 inspection item can include a recognition test among visual diagrammatic memory tests. Accordingly, the 4-2 inspection process can include a process of performing a recognition test among visual diagrammatic memory tests on the user and calculating a 4-2 inspection score.
[0054] The differences between the visual diagrammatic memory test included in the 4th inspection process according to this embodiment and the conventional visual diagrammatic memory test can be as follows. The visual diagrammatic memory test according to this embodiment can eliminate interference by semantic memory using abstract images that cannot be verbalized. Also, the images can be configured as one set by varying in color, pattern, and degree of overlap. Also, when performing the recognition test among visual diagrammatic memory tests, images included in the same set as the learned images can be presented as interference images. Also, by arbitrarily selecting and presenting images within a set containing the same cues, the learning effect of selecting familiar images due to past test executions can be eliminated.
[0055] The 5th inspection process can be executed after the execution of the 4-1 inspection process is completed. The 5th inspection process can include a process of performing an inspection on a 5th inspection item that evaluates whether the predetermined presented word and the color of the predetermined presented word are accurately pronounced, and calculating a 5th inspection score. Here, the 5th inspection item can include a Stroop test.
[0056] The Stroop test can measure the ability to suppress a reaction unrelated to the target reaction and maintain the target. The Stroop test can be an efficient index for distinguishing between dementia patients and normal elderly people, as the difference in the test execution ability between dementia patients and normal elderly people appears significantly.
[0057] In this embodiment, the fifth inspection process can include a fifth-1 inspection process and a fifth-2 inspection process.
[0058] The fifth-1 inspection process can include a process of performing an inspection on a fifth-1 inspection item that evaluates whether a given word is spoken correctly and calculating a fifth-1 inspection score. Here, the fifth-1 inspection item can include a first Stroop test. Accordingly, the fifth-1 process can include a process of performing the first Stroop test on a user and calculating a fifth-1 inspection score.
[0059] The fifth-2 inspection process can include a process of performing an inspection on a fifth-2 inspection item that evaluates whether the color of a given presented word is spoken correctly and calculating a fifth-2 inspection score. Here, the fifth-2 inspection item can include a second Stroop test. Accordingly, the fifth-2 process can include a process of performing the second Stroop test on a user and calculating a fifth-2 inspection score.
[0060] The differences between the Stroop test included in the fifth inspection process according to this embodiment and the conventional Stroop test can be as follows. The conventional Stroop test was a method of performing the test on test paper, continuously reading out the presented words, and counting the number of words correctly read to calculate the test score. However, the Stroop test according to this embodiment can include a word reading task of selecting the same word as the word written with the color name and a color reading task of selecting the word that matches the color of the word. The Stroop test according to this embodiment shortens the execution time in consideration of the time that can show a significant test result and can evaluate the number of positive responses during the execution time.
[0061] The sixth inspection process can be executed after the execution of the fifth inspection process is completed. The sixth inspection process can include a process of performing an inspection on a sixth inspection item that evaluates whether to recognize the emotional state shown in a predetermined face presentation image, and calculating a sixth inspection score. Here, the sixth inspection item can include a face emotion inspection. Thereby, the sixth inspection process can include a process of performing a face emotion inspection on a user and calculating a sixth inspection score.
[0062] Generally, dementia patients may develop emotional recognition disorders due to changes in cognitive functions. In addition, dementia patients may have difficulty in emotional exchanges with others compared to healthy people, and there may also be a decrease in empathy in interpersonal relationships. In particular, frontotemporal dementia (FTD) may show changes in behavior in interpersonal relationships, such as apathy, errors in social processing methods, and damage to social recognition. In addition, frontotemporal dementia may have a decrease in facial emotion recognition compared to the normal group. In contrast, the face identification test according to this embodiment provides a plurality of first face presentation images including six basic emotions (happy, scared, sad, angry, bitter, surprising) and a plurality of second face presentation images without emotions, that is, expressionless, and can confirm whether to sensitively notice the emotions included in each expression.
[0063] The differences between the face emotion inspection included in the sixth inspection process according to this embodiment and the conventional face emotion inspection can be as follows. The conventional face identification test was a method of searching for accurate emotions by looking at facial expression photos. However, the face identification test according to this embodiment can present the intensity of emotions step by step and evaluate the matching emotions. In addition, the face emotion inspection can distinguish the emotions between weak emotions and strong emotions, and can level the difference between positive emotions and negative emotions. Also, the difference score (contrast) calculated by the face identification test can be said to be useful for differentiating between major depressive disorder and FTD. The face identification test can present stimuli with a balanced male-female ratio in order to eliminate gender bias towards stimuli.
[0064] The seventh inspection process can be executed after the execution of the sixth inspection process is completed. The seventh inspection process includes a process of performing an inspection on a seventh inspection item that evaluates how accurately and quickly a number presented within a preset time limit is selected, and presenting a number and a day of the week and evaluating how accurately and quickly the day of the week corresponding to the number is selected, and calculating a seventh inspection score. Here, the seventh inspection item can include a Trail Making Test.
[0065] The Trail Making Test can be a test created to evaluate visual concepts and visual-motor abilities. The Trail Making Test can include a number connection test and a number-alphabet connection test. Here, the number-alphabet connection test is a test of drawing lines to connect circles numbered with numbers or lettered with alphabetic characters in turn according to their respective orders. The Trail Making Test may comprehensively require visual perception ability, visual exploration, movement speed, complex visual scanning, agility, etc. Also, the number-alphabet connection test can require the ability to maintain cognitive function conversion such as set-shifting ability, inhibitory reversal, and two types of parallel thinking.
[0066] In this embodiment, the seventh inspection process can include a seventh-1 inspection process and a seventh-2 inspection process.
[0067] The seventh-1 inspection process includes a process of performing an inspection on a seventh-1 inspection item that evaluates how accurately and quickly an arbitrary number started and displayed within the seventh-1 time limit is selected and how accurately and quickly other presented numbers are selected in descending or ascending order, and calculating a seventh-1 inspection score. Here, the seventh-1 inspection item can include a number connection test. Thus, the seventh-1 inspection process can include a process of performing a language number connection test on the user to calculate a seventh-1 inspection score.
[0068] The 7-2 inspection process can include a process of performing an inspection on a 7-2 inspection item that presents numbers and days of the week and evaluates how accurately and quickly the day of the week corresponding to the number is selected within the 7-2 time limit, and calculating a 7-2 inspection score. Here, the 7-2 inspection item can include a number-day connection inspection. Accordingly, the 7-2 inspection process can include a process of performing a pattern number-day connection inspection on a user and calculating a 7-2 inspection score.
[0069] Different from the conventional Trail Making Test, the Trail Making Test according to this embodiment was developed as a digital version of a Korean version of the Trail Making Test for the elderly, which was developed by replacing the alphabet with familiar days of the week (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday) considering the characteristics of Korean elderly people.
[0070] The 8th inspection process can be executed after the execution of the 4-2 inspection process is completed. The 8th inspection process can perform an inspection on an 8th inspection item that evaluates whether to arrange the sizes of a given presentation object in descending or ascending order, and calculate an 8th inspection score. Here, the 8th inspection item can include a size-weight inspection.
[0071] The size-weight inspection can be a linguistic inspection that evaluates semantic memory by presenting three animals and three objects each and arranging each stimulus by size and weight. The size-weight inspection was developed into a Korean version modified to suit Korean elderly people for the stimuli of animals and objects, and its usability was evaluated for validity. As a result of the study, the inspection scores showed a significant difference between the normal group and Alzheimer's disease dementia (AD), and the two groups could be discriminated. Also, the inspection scores showed a significant difference between Alzheimer's disease dementia and semantic variant primary progressive aphasia (SV-PPA), and both clinical groups could be discriminated. A significant correlation was shown between the inspection scores and the volumes of gray matter in the right inferior frontal cortex and bilateral temporal cortices, which are brain regions involved in recalling semantic information from the results of brain imaging of SV-PPA patients.
[0072] In this embodiment, the eighth inspection process can include an eighth - 1 inspection process and an eighth - 2 inspection process.
[0073] The eighth - 1 inspection process can perform an inspection on an eighth - 1 inspection item that evaluates whether to arrange the sizes of predetermined presentation objects in descending or ascending order, and calculate an eighth - 1 inspection score. Here, the eighth - 1 inspection item can include a size inspection. Thus, the eighth - 1 inspection process can include a process of performing a size inspection on the user and calculating an eighth - 1 inspection score.
[0074] The eighth - 2 inspection process can perform an inspection on an eighth - 2 inspection item that evaluates whether to arrange the weights of predetermined presentation objects in descending or ascending order, and calculate an eighth - 2 inspection score. Here, the eighth - 2 inspection item can include a weight inspection. Thus, the eighth - 2 inspection process can include a process of performing a weight inspection on the user and calculating an eighth - 2 inspection score.
[0075] The differences between the size - weight inspection included in the eighth inspection process according to this embodiment and the conventional size - weight inspection can be as follows. The size - weight inspection according to this embodiment classifies objects according to size and objects according to weight into a plurality (for example, five) of categories respectively, and can configure the difficulty level as low / medium / high through the level - by - level classification between categories. Combinations between categories with large differences in weight and size may have a low difficulty level. Combinations between categories with small differences in weight and size may have a high difficulty level. Also, the beginning can be composed of simple questions and the latter half can be composed of difficult questions. The image of the object can be a picture composed of lines and can be configured so that the characteristics of the object (such as an animal, an object, etc.) are well represented. Also, objects that are not familiar to the elderly in Korea can be configured to be excluded.
[0076] The 9th inspection process can be executed after the execution of the 8th inspection process is completed. The 9th inspection process provides an arbitrary image and a narration for the arbitrary image, and executes an inspection for the 9th inspection item that evaluates the degree of understanding of the social situation based on the collection result of positive and negative responses to questions after the provision of the narration, and can include a process of calculating the 9th inspection score. Here, the 9th inspection item can include a theory of mind inspection. Thereby, the 9th inspection process can include a process of performing a theory of mind inspection on the user and calculating the 9th inspection score.
[0077] Social cognition is the ability to perceive, interpret, and process social information that is constantly encountered in daily life. The theory of mind means the ability to decode or infer mental states such as the beliefs, needs, and intentions of others, and enables one to understand others and predict their actions. The theory of mind inspection can be composed of a cognitive aspect and an emotional aspect. The theory of mind inspection can be configured to evaluate the understanding and coping ability with respect to social situations based on the theory of mind.
[0078] The differences between the theory of mind inspection included in the 9th inspection process according to this embodiment and the conventional picture arrangement test can be as follows. The conventional picture arrangement test (WAIS-R) is a test that arranges the given pictures in order to match the flow of the story and checks whether the social situation is understood. However, the conventional picture arrangement test is highly difficult for the elderly and difficult to perform. Therefore, the theory of mind inspection according to this embodiment can be composed of a test that modifies the story to content that is friendly to the elderly and understands the intentions of the characters and the social situation from the content presented for each scene and listens to the emotions of the characters.
[0079] The 10th inspection process can be executed after the execution of the 9th inspection process is completed. The 10th inspection process can include a process of performing an inspection on a 10th inspection item that evaluates whether to find a figure in a color different from the color of a default presentation figure, and calculating a 10th inspection score. Here, the 10th inspection item can include a color perception inspection. Accordingly, the 10th inspection process can include a process of performing a color perception inspection on a user and calculating a 10th inspection score.
[0080] The differences between the color perception inspection included in the 10th inspection process according to this embodiment and the conventional color perception inspection can be as follows. As the conventional color perception inspection, the Farnsworth Munsell 100 hue test divides similar colors into four color regions and arranges them based on three attributes of color: hue, chroma, and lightness. The user checks whether to distinguish the color difference by arranging the colors in the correct order with the colors at both ends as a reference. On the other hand, the color perception inspection according to this embodiment can be configured by selecting colors based on a color system of a green color series and a blue color series in consideration of the fact that Parkinson's disease dementia patients have difficulty in distinguishing between blue and green. The color perception inspection according to this embodiment can be configured such that instead of arranging the entire colors in the same way as the conventional inspection, two colors are selected, and the difficulty level is high when the color difference is small and the difficulty level is low when the color difference is large.
[0081] After the execution of the 1st inspection process to the 10th inspection process is completed, the inspection device 100 can execute a category classification process of classifying at least one inspection item among a plurality of inspection items into any one of a plurality of neurocognitive categories. In this embodiment, the category classification process can be expressed as a category classification step in the claims described later.
[0082] The inspection device 100 can classify the 2nd inspection item (verbal cue memory test) and the 4th inspection item (visual schematic memory test) into a 1st neurocognitive category that can evaluate the decline in cognitive function with respect to memory.
[0083] The inspection device 100 can be classified into a second neurocognitive category that can distinguish the sixth inspection item (facial emotion inspection) and the ninth inspection item (theory of mind inspection) for neurocognitive disorders related to social cognition.
[0084] The inspection device 100 can be classified into a third neurocognitive category that can evaluate the decline in cognitive function for language based on the eighth inspection item (size-weight inspection).
[0085] The inspection device 100 can be classified into a fourth neurocognitive category that can evaluate the decline in cognitive function for perception based on the tenth inspection item (color perception inspection).
[0086] The inspection device 100 can be classified into a fifth neurocognitive category that can evaluate the decline in cognitive function for attention and execution based on the first inspection item (fluency inspection), the third inspection item (symbol-digit matching inspection), the fifth inspection item (Stroop inspection), and the seventh inspection item (trail making inspection).
[0087] After the execution of the category classification process is completed, the inspection device 100 can execute an evaluation process to evaluate whether there is a decline in cognitive function in the neurocognitive category based on the inspection scores for the inspection items classified into the neurocognitive category. In this embodiment, the evaluation process can be expressed as an evaluation step in the claims described later.
[0088] The inspection device 100 can execute a first evaluation process to evaluate whether there is a decline in cognitive function for the first neurocognitive category as memory based on the second inspection score (language cue memory inspection score) and the fourth inspection score (visual pattern memory inspection score). "
[0089] The inspection device 100 can execute a second evaluation process to evaluate whether there is a decline in cognitive function for the second neurocognitive category as social cognition based on the sixth inspection score (facial emotion inspection score) and the ninth inspection score (theory of mind inspection score).
[0090] The inspection device 100 can execute a third evaluation process for evaluating whether there is a decline in cognitive function with respect to the third neurocognitive category as a language, based on the eighth inspection score (size and weight inspection score).
[0091] The inspection device 100 can execute a fourth evaluation process for evaluating whether there is a decline in cognitive function with respect to the fourth neurocognitive category as a perception, based on the tenth inspection score (color perception inspection score).
[0092] The inspection device 100 can execute a fifth evaluation process for evaluating whether there is a decline in cognitive function with respect to the fifth neurocognitive category as attention execution, based on the first inspection score (fluency inspection score), the third inspection score (symbol - digit matching inspection score), the fifth inspection score (Stroop inspection score), and the seventh inspection score (trail making inspection score).
[0093] In the present embodiment, the inspection device 100 can exist independently in a server form, or the inspection function for evaluating the decline in cognitive function provided by the inspection device 100 can be embodied in an application form and installed on the user terminal 200.
[0094] The user terminal 200 can access the inspection application for evaluating the decline in cognitive function provided by the inspection device 100 and / or the inspection site for evaluating the decline in cognitive function, and receive the inspection service for evaluating the decline in cognitive function. Here, the user terminal 200 can include the terminal equipped with the user who undergoes the inspection, that is, the subject.
[0095] Such a user terminal 200 can include a communication terminal capable of executing the functions of a computing device (not shown), and in addition to a desktop computer 201, a smartphone 202, and a notebook computer 203 operated by a user, it can be a tablet PC, a smart TV, a mobile phone, a PDA (personal digital assistant), a media player, a micro server, a GPS (global positioning system) device, an e-book terminal, a digital broadcast terminal, a navigation device, a kiosk, an MP3 player, a digital camera, a home appliance, and other mobile or non-mobile computing devices, but is not limited thereto. Further, the user terminal 200 can be a wearable terminal such as a watch, glasses, a hair band, and a ring having a communication function and a data processing function. Such a user terminal 200 is not limited to the above-described content, and any terminal capable of web browsing can be borrowed without limitation.
[0096] The network 300 can play a role in connecting the inspection device 100 and the user terminal 200. Such a network 300 can cover wired networks such as LAN (local area network), WAN (wide area network), MAN (metropolitan area network), ISDN (integrated service digital network), and wireless networks such as WLAN (wireless LAN), CDMA (code-division multiple access), and satellite communication. However, the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto. Further, the network 300 can transmit and receive information using short-distance communication and / or long-distance communication. Here, short-distance communication can include Bluetooth, RFID (radio frequency identification), IrDA (infrared data association), UWB (ultra-wideband), ZigBee, and Wi-Fi technology, and long-distance communication can include CDMA (code-division multiple access), FDMA (frequency-division multiple access), TDMA (time-division multiple access), OFDMA (orthogonal frequency-division multiple access), and SC-FDMA (single carrier frequency-division multiple access) technology.
[0097] The network 300 can include connections of network elements such as hubs, bridges, routers, and switches. The network 300 can include one or more connected networks, such as a public network such as the Internet and a private network such as a secure enterprise private network, for example, multiple network environments. Access to the network 300 can be provided via one or more wired or wireless access networks.
[0098] Furthermore, the network 300 can support CAN (controller area network) communication, V2I (vehicle to infrastructure) communication, V2X (vehicle to everything) communication, Wave (wireless access in vehicular environment) communication technology, and an IoT (Internet of Things) network and / or 5G communication that exchanges and processes information between distributed components such as things.
[0099] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an inspection apparatus for evaluating cognitive function decline according to the present embodiment for a schematic explanation. In the following description, parts overlapping with the description of FIG. 1 are omitted. Referring to FIG. 2, the inspection apparatus 100 can include a communication unit 110, a storage medium 120, a program storage unit 130, a database 140, an inspection management unit 150, and a control unit 160.
[0100] The communication unit 110 can provide a communication interface necessary to provide transmission and reception signals between the inspection apparatus 100 and the user terminal 200 in the form of packet data in conjunction with the network 300. Furthermore, the communication unit 110 can play a role of transmitting the request information of the inspection management unit 150 to the user terminal 200 and receiving the response information of the user terminal 200. Here, the communication network is a medium that plays a role of connecting the inspection apparatus 100 and the user terminal 200, and can include a connection path that provides a connection path so that information can be transmitted and received after the user terminal 200 is connected to the inspection apparatus 100. Also, the communication unit 110 can be a device including hardware and software necessary to transmit and receive signals such as control signals or data signals through a wired or wireless connection with other network devices.
[0101] The memory medium 120 executes a function of temporarily or permanently storing data processed by the control unit 160. Here, the memory medium 120 can include a magnetic storage media or a flash storage media, but the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto. Such a memory medium 120 can include a built-in memory and / or an external memory, such as a volatile memory like DRAM, SRAM, or SDRAM, a non-volatile memory like OTPROM (one time programmable ROM), PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, maskROM, flashROM, NAND flash memory, or NOR flash memory, a flash drive like SSD, CF (compact flash) card, SD card, Micro-SD card, Mini-SD card, Xd card, or memory stick, or a storage device like HDD.
[0102] The program storage unit 130 is equipped with control software that performs operations such as an inspection process of inspecting to what extent missions presented for each of a plurality of inspection items are completed for a user and calculating inspection scores for each of the plurality of inspection items, a category classification process of classifying at least one inspection item among the plurality of inspection items into any one of a plurality of neurocognitive categories, and an evaluation process of evaluating whether there is a decline in cognitive function in the neurocognitive category based on the inspection scores for the inspection items classified into the neurocognitive category.
[0103] The database 140 can include a management database that stores inspection information for evaluating cognitive decline. For example, the management database can store information related to the first to tenth inspection processes, information related to the first to fifth neurocognitive category classification processes, information related to the first to fifth evaluation processes, information related to the process of evaluating Alzheimer's disease dementia, information related to the process of evaluating frontotemporal dementia, and information related to the process of evaluating Parkinson's disease dementia and Lewy body dementia.
[0104] In addition, the management database can store the correct answers corresponding to the instruction texts described later. For example, the management database can store the correct answer text corresponding to the first instruction text, the correct answer word or picture corresponding to the 2-1 instruction text, the correct answer word or picture corresponding to the 2-2 instruction text, the correct answer corresponding to the third instruction text, the correct answers corresponding to the 4-1 and 4-2 instruction texts, the correct answers corresponding to the 5-1 and 5-2 instruction texts, the correct answer corresponding to the sixth instruction text, the correct answers corresponding to the 7-1 and 7-2 instruction texts, the correct answers corresponding to the 8-1 and 8-2 instruction texts, the correct answer corresponding to the ninth instruction text, and the correct answer corresponding to the tenth instruction text.
[0105] In addition, the management database can store the method for calculating the inspection score. In the present embodiment, a series of inputs received from the user terminal 200 corresponding to the instruction text are compared with the correct answers, and the number of incorrect answers to the overall correct answers can be counted to calculate the inspection score. Here, the more the number of incorrect answers, the lower the inspection score may be, and the fewer the number of incorrect answers, the higher the inspection score may be.
[0106] In the present embodiment, the inspection score can be changed according to the count result of the required time described later. For example, when the count result of the required time exceeds the limit time, the inspection score can be further lowered.
[0107] In addition, the management database can store reference scores for evaluating cognitive function decline. The calculation process of the reference scores can be described as follows.
[0108] In the first process, the first to tenth examination processes can be executed for the normal group. Here, the normal group is a group of healthy individuals without cognitive function decline, and can be classified differently according to gender / education level / age. As a result of executing the first to tenth examination processes for the normal group, the first to tenth examination scores of the normal group can be calculated.
[0109] In the second process, for the first to tenth examination scores of the normal group, the first to tenth average values and the first to tenth standard deviations can be calculated.
[0110] In the third process, at least one of the first to tenth examination items for the normal group can be classified into any one of the first to fifth neurocognitive categories. The second and fourth examination items for the normal group are classified into the first neurocognitive category, the sixth and ninth examination items for the normal group are classified into the second neurocognitive category, the eighth examination item for the normal group is classified into the third neurocognitive category, the tenth examination item for the normal group is classified into the fourth neurocognitive category, and the first, third, fifth, and seventh examination items for the normal group can be classified into the fifth neurocognitive category.
[0111] In the fourth process, the first to tenth Z-scores can be calculated using the first to tenth average values and the first to tenth standard deviations for the first to tenth examination scores. Here, it can be said that the Z-score is a score that indicates how far the examination score is from the average value when the standard deviation is used as the unit.
[0112] In this embodiment, when the Z-score is less than or equal to the first standard deviation (e.g., -1.5SD), it is possible to evaluate that there is a decline in cognitive function in the neurocognitive category to which the test item belongs. Thus, the reference score can be said to be the test score of the normal group where the Z-score is the first standard deviation (e.g., -1.5SD). In this embodiment, the reference score can include the first to tenth reference scores. In this embodiment, the Z-score can also include the first to tenth Z-scores.
[0113] As an alternative embodiment, the reference score can be expressed as a standard cut-off score. Here, the standard cut-off score can be said to be the test score of the normal group where the above-mentioned Z-score is the first standard deviation (e.g., -1.5SD). In this embodiment, the standard cut-off score can include the first to tenth standard cut-off scores.
[0114] In this embodiment, the reference score can be updated periodically. Each time the user executes a test application for evaluating cognitive decline via the user terminal 200 or accesses a test site for evaluating cognitive decline in order to perform a test for evaluating cognitive decline, the reference score can be updated in real time.
[0115] Conventionally, in order to calculate the reference score, a large number of personnel and time were required in the process of conducting tests on a large number of subjects and collecting the resulting scores. Even when new results were generated, it took a long time for the new results to be reflected in the reference score.
[0116] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the test results collected in real time are stored in the database 140, and the reference score is updated immediately, so that the latest reference score can always be maintained. Through this real-time update of the reference score, it can be helpful for the user to always diagnose the cognitive state based on the accurate reference score. Also, since the test process is carried out online, it is possible to assist in the diagnosis based on the latest reference score without restrictions on the test location and time.
[0117] In addition, the database 140 can include a user database that stores information of users who are provided with inspection services for evaluating cognitive function decline. Here, the user information includes unique information about the user, such as the user's name, affiliation, identity details, gender, age, education level, contact information, email, address, image, etc., and information related to user authentication (login), such as an ID (or email) and password, information related to the connection country, connection location, information about the device used for connection, and information related to the connection, such as the connected network environment.
[0118] In addition, the user database can store the user's information, information provided by users who accessed an inspection application for evaluating cognitive function decline or an inspection site for evaluating cognitive function decline and / or category history, environment setting information set by the user, resource usage amount information used by the user, and charging and settlement information corresponding to the user's resource usage amount.
[0119] The inspection management unit 150 can execute an inspection process that inspects to what extent missions presented for each of a plurality of inspection items for a user are completed and calculates inspection scores for each of the plurality of inspection items.
[0120] After the execution of the inspection process is completed, the inspection management unit 150 can execute a category classification process that classifies at least one of the plurality of inspection items into any one of a plurality of neurocognitive categories.
[0121] After the execution of the category classification process is completed, the inspection management unit 150 can execute an evaluation process that evaluates whether there is a decline in cognitive function in the neurocognitive category based on the inspection scores for the inspection items classified into the neurocognitive category.
[0122] After the execution of the evaluation process is completed, the inspection management unit 150 can transmit the evaluation results to the user terminal 200 and / or the terminal of the medical practitioner (e.g., a doctor) (not shown).
[0123] The control unit 160 can control the operation of the entire inspection device 100 by using control software installed in the program storage unit 130 as a kind of central processing unit. The control unit 160 can include any type of device capable of processing data, such as a processor. Here, the "processor" can mean, for example, a data processing device incorporated in hardware that has a physically structured circuit for executing functions represented by codes or instruction words included in a program. As an example of such a data processing device incorporated in hardware, it is possible to cover processing devices such as a microprocessor, a central processing unit (CPU), a processor core, a multiprocessor, an ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit), and an FPGA (field programmable gate array), but the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto.
[0124] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing schematically the configuration of the inspection management unit among the inspection devices for evaluating cognitive decline in FIG. 2, and FIGS. 4 to 15 are exemplary diagrams of screens provided to the user terminal for performing an inspection for evaluating cognitive decline according to the present embodiment. In the following description, parts overlapping with the descriptions of FIGS. 1 and 2 will be omitted from the description. Referring to FIGS. 3 to 15, the inspection management unit 150 according to the present embodiment can include a providing unit 151, a first processing unit 152, a second processing unit 153, a third processing unit 154, and a transmitting unit 155.
[0125] The providing unit 151 can provide various types of information for the test to the user terminal 200 that accesses the test application for evaluating cognitive decline and / or the test site for evaluating cognitive decline. Hereinafter, it can be said that the figures shown in FIGS. 4 to 15 are the screens output to the user terminal 200 by the processing of the providing unit 151.
[0126] FIG. 4 is an exemplary diagram of a first screen provided by the providing unit 151 to the user terminal 200 for performing a test for evaluating cognitive decline. Referring to FIG. 4, the first screen can include an icon and text representing the test. As one embodiment, the providing unit 151 can provide an icon and text (the first test) representing the first test to the user terminal 200 for the first test process. Here, the first test represented by the text is a summary of the first test process and can be provided in a simple and clear manner considering the elderly. In such a way, the providing unit 151 can provide an icon and text representing the second test to the tenth test to the user terminal 200 for the second test process to the tenth test process.
[0127] The data processed by the first processing unit 152 to the third processing unit 154 can be provided to the user terminal 200 by the providing unit 151. In particular, a series of data provided by the first processing unit 152 is originally provided by the providing unit 151, but for the sake of convenience of explanation, it will be described assuming that it is provided by the first processing unit 152.
[0128] The first processing unit 152 can execute the first test process. In the present embodiment, the first processing unit 152 can execute the first test process excluding the practice test a plurality of times.
[0129] When executing the first test process, the first processing unit 152 can provide the user terminal 200 with a first instruction text that causes one or more words corresponding to a predetermined presentation category to be spoken within the first time limit.
[0130] The first processing unit 152 can receive the speech results for one or more words corresponding to the first instruction sentence from the user terminal 200 and falling within a predetermined presentation category, and convert them into speech text.
[0131] The first processing unit 152 can compare the speech text with the correct text to calculate a first inspection score. In the present embodiment, the first inspection score can be calculated such that the higher the number of speech texts determined to be correct with respect to the total number of times the first inspection process is executed, the higher the score.
[0132] In the present embodiment, before executing the first inspection process, the first processing unit 152 can provide the user terminal 200 with one or more of the method of executing the first inspection process in text and an explanatory display screen, and can cause the user terminal 200 to execute a practice inspection for the first inspection process.
[0133] In the present embodiment, when the first inspection score is higher than the cut-off score of the first standard, it can be evaluated that the fluency is good, and when the first inspection score is lower than the cut-off score of the first standard, it can be evaluated that the fluency has decreased.
[0134] Figs. 5A to 5H are exemplary diagrams of the screens provided to the user terminal 200 for executing the first inspection process. In the present embodiment, Figs. 5A to 5H are exemplary diagrams of the screens for explaining the first inspection process.
[0135] Fig. 5A shows the start screen of the first inspection process. When the input of the start button 501 is received, it can be switched to the next screen.
[0136] Fig. 5B shows a screen that provides the method of executing the first inspection process in text and notifies the start of a practice inspection process (first practice inspection process) for the first inspection process. When the practice start button 502 is input, it can be switched to the next screen.
[0137] FIG. 5C shows a screen for executing the first practice inspection process. After the user checks the first practice instructions, the user can input the microphone button 503 and speak words while looking at the progress bar 504. In the present embodiment, the progress bar 504 can execute one or more of a function of counting the limited time and a function of indicating the progress of the work.
[0138] FIG. 5D shows a screen for notifying the re - execution of the first practice inspection process. If the user has not input the microphone button 503, the number of spoken words is less than a predetermined number (for example, 3), or the speaking volume is low, the first practice inspection process can be re - executed.
[0139] FIG. 5E shows a screen indicating that the execution of the first practice inspection process is completed and notifying the execution of this inspection.
[0140] FIG. 5F shows a screen for notifying the start of the first instructions and the first inspection process. When the start button 505 is input, the screen can be switched to the next screen.
[0141] FIG. 5G shows a screen for executing the first inspection process. After the user checks the first instructions, the user can input the microphone button 506 and speak words corresponding to the first instructions while looking at the progress bar 507.
[0142] Returning to FIG. 3, the first processing unit 152 can execute a second inspection process including a second - 1 inspection process and a second - 2 inspection process. In the present embodiment, the first processing unit 152 can execute the second inspection process a plurality of times.
[0143] When executing the second - 1 inspection process, the first processing unit 152 can provide the user terminal 200 with a second - 1 instruction that shows a plurality of presented words or a plurality of presented pictures and allows the user to select a word or a picture corresponding to a clue of a predetermined category among the plurality of presented words or the plurality of presented pictures.
[0144] The first processing unit 152 can receive the selection result of one word or picture selected from among a plurality of presented words or presented pictures corresponding to the second-1 instruction sentence from the user terminal 200.
[0145] The first processing unit 152 can calculate a second-1 inspection score by comparing the selection result of the word or picture with the correct word or correct image. In the present embodiment, the second-1 inspection score can be calculated such that the higher the number of word selection results determined to be correct with respect to the total number of times the second-1 process is executed.
[0146] In the present embodiment, before executing the second-1 inspection process, the first processing unit 152 can provide one or more of the execution method of the second-1 inspection process to the user terminal 200 in the form of text and an explanation display screen.
[0147] The first processing unit 152 can execute the second-2 inspection process after the execution of the second-1 inspection process is completed and a predetermined time has elapsed.
[0148] When executing the second-2 inspection process, the first processing unit 152 can provide the user terminal 200 with a second-2 instruction sentence for selecting whether the predetermined presented word or the predetermined presented picture is the word seen in the previous inspection together with the predetermined presented word or the predetermined presented picture.
[0149] The first processing unit 152 can calculate a second-2 inspection score by comparing the result of selecting whether the predetermined presented word or the predetermined presented picture is the word or picture seen in the previous inspection corresponding to the second-2 instruction sentence with the correct word or correct picture. In the present embodiment, the second-2 inspection score can be calculated such that the higher the number of selection results determined to be correct with respect to the total number of times the second-2 process is executed.
[0150] In the present embodiment, before executing the second-2 inspection process, the first processing unit 152 can provide one or more of the execution method of the second-2 inspection process to the user terminal 200 in the form of text and an explanation display screen.
[0151] As an alternative embodiment, the first processing unit 152 can calculate the second inspection score by summing one or more of the second-1 inspection score and the second-2 inspection score. Further, the first processing unit 152 can use each of the second-1 inspection score and the second-2 inspection score without summing them when evaluating the cognitive function decline. In this embodiment, when the second inspection score is higher than the cut-off score of the second criterion, it can be evaluated that the language memory is good, and when the second inspection score is lower than the cut-off score of the second criterion, it can be evaluated that the language memory has declined.
[0152] FIGS. 6A to 6H are exemplary views of the screen provided to the user terminal 200 for executing the second inspection process. FIGS. 6A to 6D are exemplary views of the screen for explaining the second-1 inspection process, and FIGS. 6E to 6H are exemplary views of the screen for explaining the second-2 inspection process. For the sake of convenience of explanation, the second inspection process according to this embodiment is described by taking words as an example among words or pictures, and pictures can be included instead of words.
[0153] FIG. 6A shows the start screen of the second-1 inspection process. When the input of the start button 601 is received, it can be switched to the next screen.
[0154] FIG. 6B provides the execution method of the second-1 inspection process in text and shows the screen notifying the start of the second-1 inspection process. When the start button 602 is input, it can be switched to the next screen.
[0155] FIG. 6C shows the screen for executing a part of the second-1 inspection process. After the user confirms the second-1 instruction text, the user can select any one of the plurality of presented words while looking at the progress bar 603.
[0156] FIG. 6D shows the screen notifying that the execution of the second-1 inspection process is completed and the start of the next inspection process.
[0157] Figure 6E shows the start screen of the second - second inspection process. When the input of the start button 606 is received, it can be switched to the next screen. Here, the start screen of the second - second inspection processor can be provided to the user terminal 200 after the execution of the seventh inspection process is completed.
[0158] Figure 6F provides the execution method of the second - second inspection process in text and shows the screen notifying the start of the second - second inspection process. When the start button 604 is input, it can be switched to the next screen.
[0159] Figure 6G shows the screen for executing the second - second inspection process. After the user confirms the second - second instruction text, the user can select one of the "Yes" button 605 and the "No" button 606 while looking at the progress bar 612.
[0160] Figure 6H shows the screen notifying that the execution of the second - second inspection process is completed and the start of the next inspection process.
[0161] Returning to Figure 3, the first processing unit 152 can execute a third inspection process including a third inspection process. In this embodiment, the first processing unit 152 can execute the third inspection process (excluding the practice inspection) multiple times.
[0162] When executing the third inspection process, the first processing unit 152 can display an arbitrary symbol image in the center of the screen and provide the user terminal 200 with a third instruction text that allows the user to select an arbitrary number that matches the same image as the arbitrary symbol image within the third time limit.
[0163] The first processing unit 152 can receive the selection result of an arbitrary number that matches the same image as the arbitrary symbol image corresponding to the third instruction text from the user terminal 200, compare the selected result with the correct answer, and calculate the third inspection score. In this embodiment, the third inspection score can be calculated to be higher as the number of selection results determined to be correct is larger.
[0164] In the present embodiment, before executing the third inspection process, the first processing unit 152 can provide the user terminal 200 with the execution method of the third inspection process in one or more of text and an explanation display screen, and can cause the user terminal 200 to execute a practice inspection for the third inspection process.
[0165] In the present embodiment, when the third inspection score is higher than the cut-off score of the third standard, it can be evaluated that the execution function is better, and when the third inspection score is lower than the cut-off score of the third standard, it can be evaluated that the execution function has deteriorated.
[0166] FIGS. 7A to 7K are exemplary diagrams of screens provided to the user terminal 200 for executing the third inspection process.
[0167] FIG. 7A shows the start screen of the fifth inspection process. When the input of the start button 701 is received, the screen can be switched to the next screen, and an explanation display screen can be displayed.
[0168] FIGS. 7B to 7D show explanation display screens for the third inspection process. FIGS. 7B to 7D can be displayed all at once or sequentially, and can proceed to the next screen when a predetermined time has elapsed. In FIG. 7B, one of the symbol images is displayed in the center of the screen, and the hand image 702 shows a state of selecting the number 1 while moving according to the explanatory instruction text. In FIG. 7C, different symbol images are displayed in the center of the screen. In FIG. 7D, the hand image 703 shows a state of selecting the number 5 while moving according to the explanatory instruction text.
[0169] FIG. 7E shows a screen notifying the start of a practice inspection process (third practice inspection process) for the third inspection process. When the practice start button 704 is input, the screen can be switched to the next screen.
[0170] Figure 7F shows a screen for executing the third practice inspection process. The screen of Figure 7F can include a third practice instruction text, a symbol image displayed in the center of the screen, a plurality of symbol images displayed at the bottom of the screen, and a plurality of numbers matched to each of the plurality of symbol images. After the user checks the third practice instruction text, the user can search for the symbol image most similar to the symbol image displayed in the center of the screen and select the number matched to the found symbol image.
[0171] In Figure 7F, the symbol image displayed in the center of the screen and the plurality of symbol images displayed at the bottom of the screen may not react to touch. In Figure 7F, the plurality of numbers matched to each of the plurality of symbol images can react to touch.
[0172] Figure 7G shows a screen provided at the time of a practice wrong answer, and Figure 7H shows a screen provided at the time of a consecutive practice wrong answer. In Figures 7G and 7H, an instruction text for reselecting the number corresponding to the symbol image can be output.
[0173] Figure 7I shows a countdown for ending the third practice inspection process and executing the third inspection process. In Figure 7I, before the start of the third inspection process, a screen of 3, 2, 1, start can be displayed.
[0174] Figure 7J shows an execution screen of the third inspection process. The screen of Figure 7J can include a third instruction text, a symbol image displayed in the center of the screen, a plurality of symbol images displayed at the bottom of the screen, and a plurality of numbers matched to each of the plurality of symbol images. After the user checks the third instruction text, the user can search for the symbol image most similar to the symbol image displayed in the center of the screen and select the number matched to the found symbol image. In Figure 7J, the time elapsed until the user selects a number can be counted by the progress bar 705.
[0175] Figure 7K shows a screen indicating that the execution of the third inspection process is completed and the start of the next inspection process.
[0176] Returning to FIG. 3, the first processing unit 152 can execute a fourth inspection process including a fourth - 1 inspection process and a fourth - 2 inspection process. In the present embodiment, the first processing unit 152 can execute the fourth inspection process a plurality of times.
[0177] When executing the fourth - 1 inspection process, the first processing unit 152 can provide the user terminal 200 with a fourth - 1 instruction sentence that shows a default first presentation image and allows selection of whether the number of colors in the default first presentation image is equal to or greater than a default number.
[0178] The first processing unit 152 can receive, from the user terminal 200, a result of selecting whether the number of colors in the default first presentation image is equal to or greater than the default number corresponding to the fourth - 1 instruction sentence, and calculate a fourth - 1 inspection score by comparing the selected result with the correct answer. In the present embodiment, the fourth - first inspection score can be calculated such that the higher the number of selection results determined to be correct with respect to the total number of times the fourth - 1 inspection process is executed.
[0179] In the present embodiment, before executing the fourth - 1 inspection process, the first processing unit 152 can provide the user terminal 200 with one or more of a text and an explanation display screen on the execution method of the fourth - 1 inspection process.
[0180] The first processing unit 152 can execute the fourth - 2 inspection process after the execution of the fourth - 1 inspection process is completed and a predetermined time has elapsed.
[0181] When executing the fourth - 2 inspection process, the first processing unit 152 can provide the user terminal 200 with a fourth - 2 instruction sentence that shows a default second presentation image and allows selection of whether the default second presentation image is the same as the default first presentation image shown previously.
[0182] The first processing unit 152 can receive the result of selecting whether the predetermined second image corresponding to the fourth - 2 instruction text from the user terminal 200 is the same as the predetermined first presentation image shown previously, and compare the selection result with the correct answer.
[0183] The first processing unit 152 can count the first required time from the time when the fourth - 2 instruction text is provided to the time when it is selected whether the predetermined second image is the same as the predetermined first presentation image shown previously.
[0184] The first processing unit 152 can calculate the fourth - 2 inspection score by reflecting the result of the comparison and the result of counting the first required time. In this embodiment, the fourth - 2 inspection score can be calculated to be different according to the total number of times the fourth - 2 inspection process is executed, the selection result determined to be correct, and the result of counting the first required time. Even if the number of selection results determined to be correct is large for the total number of times the fourth - 2 inspection process is executed, if the result of counting the first required time is large, the fourth - 2 inspection score can be low. Also, even if the number of selection results determined to be correct is small for the total number of times the fourth - 2 inspection process is executed, if the result of counting the first required time is small, the fourth - 2 inspection score can be high.
[0185] In this embodiment, before executing the fourth - 2 inspection process, the first processing unit 152 can provide the user terminal 200 with one or more of the execution method of the fourth - 2 inspection process in text and an explanation display screen.
[0186] As an alternative embodiment, the first processing unit 152 can calculate the fourth inspection score by summing the fourth-1 inspection score and the fourth-2 inspection score. Further, the first processing unit 152 can use each of the fourth-1 inspection score and the fourth-2 inspection score without summing them when evaluating cognitive function decline. In this embodiment, when the fourth inspection score is higher than the cut-off score of the fourth standard, it can be evaluated that the visual perception memory is good, and when the fourth inspection score is lower than the cut-off score of the fourth standard, it can be evaluated that the visual perception memory has declined.
[0187] Figures 8A to 8H are exemplary diagrams of the screens provided to the user terminal 200 for executing the fourth inspection process. Figures 8A to 8D are exemplary diagrams of the screens for explaining the fourth-1 inspection process, and Figures 8E to 8H are exemplary diagrams of the screens for explaining the fourth-2 inspection process.
[0188] Figure 8A shows the start screen of the fourth-1 inspection process. When the input of the start button 801 is received, the screen can be switched to the next one.
[0189] Figure 8B provides the execution method of the fourth-1 inspection process in text and shows the screen notifying the start of the fourth-1 inspection process. When the start button 802 is input, the screen can be switched to the next one.
[0190] Figure 8C shows the screen for executing the fourth-1 inspection process. After the user confirms the fourth-1 instruction text, the user can select one of the "Yes" button 803 and the "No" button 804 according to whether the number of colors in the first presented image is equal to or more than the predetermined number. Here, a progress bar (not shown) that executes one or more of a function for counting the time limit and a function for indicating the progress of the work can be further included.
[0191] Figure 8D shows the screen notifying that the execution of the fourth-1 inspection process is completed and the start of the next inspection process.
[0192] Figure 8E shows the start screen of the 4-2 inspection process. When the input of the start button 805 is received, the screen can be switched to the next one. Here, the start screen of the 4-2 inspection processor can be provided to the user terminal 200 after the execution of the 2-2 inspection process is completed.
[0193] Figure 8F shows a screen notifying an invitation to play back the first presented image provided during the execution of the 4-1 inspection process.
[0194] Figure 8G shows a screen for executing the 4-2 inspection process. After the user confirms the 4-2 instruction text, the user can select one of the "Yes" button 806 and the "No" button 807 according to whether the second presented image is the same as the first presented image. Here, it can further include a progress bar (not shown) that executes one or more of a function for counting the time limit and a function for indicating the progress of the work.
[0195] Figure 8H shows a screen indicating that the execution of the 4-2 inspection process is completed and notifying the start of the next inspection process.
[0196] Returning to Figure 3, the first processing unit 152 can execute a fifth inspection process including a 5-1 inspection process and a 5-2 inspection process. In this embodiment, the first processing unit 152 can execute the fifth inspection process excluding the practice inspection multiple times.
[0197] When executing the 5-1 inspection process, the first processing unit 152 can provide the user terminal 200 with a 5-1 instruction text that shows a default presented word and two selected words and allows the user to select the word that is the same as the default presented word from the two selected words.
[0198] The first processing unit 152 can receive the result of selecting, from among two selected words, a word identical to a predetermined presented word corresponding to the fifth-first instruction sentence from the user terminal 200, and calculate a fifth-first inspection score by comparing the selected result with the correct answer. In the present embodiment, the fifth-first inspection score can be calculated to be higher as the number of selection results determined to be correct is larger with respect to the total number of times the fifth-first inspection process has been executed.
[0199] In the present embodiment, before executing the fifth-first inspection process, the first processing unit 152 can provide the user terminal 200 with one or more of a text and an explanatory display screen regarding the method of executing the fifth-first inspection process, and can cause the user terminal 200 to execute a practice inspection for the fifth-first inspection process.
[0200] The first processing unit 152 can execute the fifth-second inspection process after the execution of the fifth-first inspection process is completed.
[0201] When executing the fifth-second inspection process, the first processing unit 152 can provide the user terminal 200 with a fifth-second instruction sentence that shows a predetermined presented word and two color selection words, and causes the user to select, from among the two color selection words, a word having the same color as the predetermined presented word.
[0202] The first processing unit 152 can receive the result of selecting, from among two color selection words, a word having the same color as a predetermined presented word corresponding to the fifth-second instruction sentence from the user terminal 200, and calculate a fifth-second inspection score by comparing the selected result with the correct answer. In the present embodiment, the fifth-second inspection score can be calculated to be higher as the number of selection results determined to be correct is larger with respect to the total number of times the fifth-second inspection process has been executed.
[0203] In the present embodiment, before executing the fifth-second inspection process, the first processing unit 152 can provide the user terminal 200 with one or more of a text and an explanatory display screen regarding the method of executing the fifth-second inspection process, and can cause the user terminal 200 to execute a practice inspection for the fifth-second inspection process.
[0204] As an alternative embodiment, the first processing unit 152 can calculate the fifth inspection score by summing the fifth-1 inspection score and the fifth-2 inspection score. Further, the first processing unit 152 can use each of the fifth-1 inspection score and the fifth-2 inspection score without summing them when evaluating the decline in cognitive function. In this embodiment, when the fifth inspection score is higher than the cut-off score of the fifth criterion, it can be evaluated that the suppression function is good, and when the fifth inspection score is lower than the cut-off score of the fifth criterion, it can be evaluated that the suppression function has declined. FIGS. 9A to 9O are exemplary views of the screen provided to the user terminal 200 for executing the fifth inspection process. FIGS. 9A to 9I are exemplary views of the screen for explaining the fifth-1 inspection process, and FIGS. 9J to 9O are exemplary views of the screen for explaining the fifth-2 inspection process.
[0205] FIG. 9A shows the start screen of the fifth-1 inspection process. When the input of the start button 901 is received, it can be switched to the fifth-1 inspection process screen.
[0206] FIG. 9B provides the execution method of the fifth-1 inspection process in text and shows the screen notifying the start of the practice inspection process (fifth-1 practice inspection process) for the fifth-1 inspection process. When the practice start button 902 is input, it can be switched to the next screen.
[0207] FIG. 9C shows the screen for executing the fifth-1 practice inspection process. After the user confirms the fifth-1 practice instruction text, the user can select the same word as the presented word from the first selection word 903 and the second selection word 904. Here, it can further include a progress bar (not shown) that executes one or more of the function of counting the time limit and the function of indicating the progress of the work.
[0208] FIG. 9D shows the screen indicating that the selection of the first selection word 905 from FIG. 9C is correct. Here, the first selection word 905 is the same as the first selection word 903 in FIG. 9C.
[0209] Figure 9E shows a screen notifying the re - execution of the 5 - 1 practice inspection process. If the execution result of the 5 - 1 practice inspection process is an incorrect answer, the 5 - 1 practice inspection process can be re - executed.
[0210] Figure 9F shows a screen notifying the completion of the execution of the 5 - 1 practice inspection process and the start of the execution of this inspection.
[0211] Figure 9G shows a screen for executing the 5 - 1 inspection process. After the user confirms the 5 - 1 instruction text, while looking at the progress bar 906, the user can select the word that is the same as the presented word from among the first selection word 907 and the second selection word 908.
[0212] Figure 9H shows a screen indicating that the selection of the first selection word 909 from Figure 9G is correct. Here, the first selection word 909 is the same as the first selection word 907 in Figure 9G.
[0213] Figure 9I shows a screen notifying the completion of the execution of the 5 - 1 inspection process and the start of the next inspection process.
[0214] Figure 9J shows the start screen of the 5 - 2 inspection process.
[0215] Figure 9K provides the execution method of the 5 - 2 inspection process in text and shows a screen notifying the start of the practice inspection process (5 - 2 practice inspection process) for the 5 - 2 inspection process. When the practice start button 910 is input, the screen can be switched to the next one.
[0216] Figure 9L shows a screen for executing the 5 - 2 practice inspection process. After the user confirms the 5 - 2 practice instruction text, the user can select the word having the same color as the presented word from among the first selection word 911 and the second selection word 912. Here, it can further include a progress bar (not shown) that executes one or more of the functions of counting the time limit and indicating the progress of the work. Figure 9L shows an example where the user selects the second selection word 912.
[0217] Figure 9M shows a screen indicating that the execution of the 5-2 practice inspection process is completed and notifying the execution of this inspection.
[0218] Figure 9N shows a screen for executing the 5-2 inspection process. After the user confirms the 5-2 instruction text, while looking at the progress bar 913, the user can select a word having the same color as the presented word from among the first selection word 914 and the second selection word 915. In Figure 9N, an example where the user selects the second selection word 915 is shown.
[0219] Figure 9O shows a screen indicating that the execution of the 5-2 inspection process is completed and notifying the start of the next inspection process.
[0220] Returning to Figure 3, the first processing unit 152 can execute the sixth inspection process. In the present embodiment, the first processing unit 152 can execute the sixth inspection process (excluding the practice inspection) a plurality of times.
[0221] When performing the sixth inspection process, the first processing unit 152 can provide a predetermined face presentation image in which an emotion is expressed and a plurality of buttons for selecting an emotional state. The first processing unit 152 can provide the user terminal 200 with a sixth instruction text for causing the user to select, with any one of the plurality of buttons, the emotional state represented in the predetermined face presentation image. Here, the plurality of emotion buttons can include a joy button, a surprise button, a sadness button, a fear button, an anger button, and a blank expression button.
[0222] The first processing unit 152 can receive, from the user terminal 200, a result of selecting, with any one of the plurality of buttons, the emotional state represented in the predetermined face presentation image corresponding to the sixth instruction text, compare the selected result with the correct answer, and calculate a sixth inspection score. In the present embodiment, the sixth inspection score can be calculated such that the higher the number of selection results determined to be correct with respect to the total number of times the sixth inspection process is executed, the higher the score.
[0223] In this embodiment, before executing the sixth inspection process, the first processing unit 152 can provide the user terminal 200 with the method of executing the sixth inspection process in text and cause the user terminal 200 to execute a practice inspection for the sixth inspection process.
[0224] In this embodiment, when the sixth inspection score is higher than the cut-off score of the sixth standard, it can be evaluated that the emotional state recognition ability is good, and when the sixth inspection score is lower than the cut-off score of the sixth standard, it can be evaluated that the emotional intensity recognition ability has declined.
[0225] FIGS. 10A to 10G are exemplary diagrams of the screens provided to the user terminal 200 for executing the sixth inspection process.
[0226] FIG. 10A shows the start screen of the sixth inspection process. When the input of the start button 1001 is received, the screen can be switched to the next screen.
[0227] FIG. 10B shows a screen that provides the method of executing the sixth inspection process in text and notifies the start of a practice inspection process (the sixth practice inspection process) for the sixth inspection process. When the practice start button 1002 is input, the screen can be switched to the next screen.
[0228] FIG. 10C shows a screen for executing the sixth practice inspection process. After the user confirms the sixth practice instruction text, the user can select which one of a plurality of identification buttons 1003 to 1008 represents the emotional state appearing in the face presentation image. Here, a program bar (not shown) that executes one or more of a function for counting the time limit and a function for illustrating the progress of the work is further included.
[0229] FIG. 10D shows the execution result screen of the sixth inspection process. As an example, an example in which the sadness button 1005 among a plurality of buttons 1003 to 1008 is selected is illustrated.
[0230] FIG. 10E shows a screen indicating that the execution of the sixth practice inspection process is completed and notifying the execution of this inspection.
[0231] FIG. 10F shows an embodiment of a screen for executing the sixth inspection process. After the user confirms the sixth instruction text, while looking at the progress bar 1009, the user can select the emotional state shown in the face presentation image with any one of the plurality of buttons 1003 to 1008. When the user completes the selection of any one of the plurality of buttons 1003 to 1008 or the count of the time limit is completed, the screen can be switched to the next screen. Here, the time count result value until one of the plurality of buttons 1003 to 1008 is selected can be output to the first processing unit 152.
[0232] FIG. 10G shows a screen indicating that the execution of the sixth inspection process is completed and notifying the start of the next inspection process.
[0233] Returning to FIG. 3, the first processing unit 152 can execute a seventh inspection process including a seventh - 1 inspection process and a seventh - 2 inspection process. In this embodiment, the first processing unit 152 can execute the seventh - 1 inspection process and the seventh - 2 inspection process (excluding the practice inspection) multiple times.
[0234] When the first processing unit 152 executes the seventh - 1 inspection process, it can provide the user terminal 200 with a seventh - 1 instruction text for selecting any number started and displayed within the seventh - 1 time limit (for example, 300 seconds) and selecting the other presented numbers in descending or ascending order.
[0235] The first processing unit 152 can receive the result of selecting any number started and displayed corresponding to the seventh - 1 instruction text from the user terminal 200 and selecting the other presented numbers in descending or ascending order.
[0236] The first processing unit 152 can count the time elapsed until the result of selecting numbers in descending or ascending order becomes correct, and calculate the 7-1 inspection score. That is, the time taken to complete the task without error within the 7-1 time limit can be calculated as the 7-1 score. The shorter the time taken to complete the task without error, the better the execution function can be evaluated. Also, if there are 5 mistakes within the 7-1 time limit, it can be considered that the 7-1 inspection has failed.
[0237] In the present embodiment, before executing the 7-1 inspection process, the first processing unit 152 can provide the user terminal 200 with the execution method of the 7-1 inspection process in one or more of text and an explanation display screen, and can cause the user terminal 200 to execute a practice inspection for the 7-1 inspection process.
[0238] After the execution of the 7-1 inspection process is completed and a predetermined time has elapsed, the first processing unit 152 can execute the 7-1 inspection process.
[0239] When executing the 7-2 inspection process, the first processing unit 152 can provide the user terminal 200 with a 7-2 instruction sentence that causes the user to alternately select an arbitrary number and the day of the week corresponding to the arbitrary number from among the numbers and days of the week presented within the 7-2 time limit.
[0240] The first processing unit 152 can receive the result of alternately selecting an arbitrary number and the day of the week corresponding to the arbitrary number in response to the 7-2 instruction sentence from the user terminal 200.
[0241] The first processing unit 152 can count the time elapsed until the result of selecting numbers in descending or ascending order becomes correct, and calculate the 7-2 inspection score. That is, the time taken to complete the task without error within the 7-2 time limit can be calculated as the 7-2 score. The shorter the time taken to complete the task without error, the better the execution function can be evaluated. Also, if there are 5 mistakes within the 7-2 time limit, it can be considered that the 7-2 inspection has failed.
[0242] In this embodiment, before executing the 7-2 inspection process, the first processing unit 152 can provide the user terminal 200 with the method of executing the 7-2 inspection process in one or more of text and an explanation display screen, and can cause the user terminal 200 to execute a practice inspection for the 7-2 inspection process.
[0243] As an alternative embodiment, the first processing unit 152 can calculate the 7-1 inspection score and the 7-2 inspection score together to obtain the 7 inspection score. Also, the first processing unit 152 can use each of the 7-1 inspection score and the 7-2 inspection score separately when evaluating the execution function without summing them up. In this embodiment, when the sum of the 7-1 inspection score and the 7-2 inspection score is higher than the cut-off score of the 7th standard, it can be evaluated that the execution function is better, and when the 7 inspection score is lower than the cut-off score of the 7th standard, it can be evaluated that the execution function has deteriorated.
[0244] FIGS. 11A to 11U are exemplary diagrams of the screens provided to the user terminal 200 for executing the 7-1 inspection process.
[0245] FIG. 11A shows the start screen of the 7-1 inspection process. When the input of the start button 1101 is received, the screen can be switched to the next screen, and an explanation display screen can be displayed.
[0246] Figures 11B to 11F show an explanatory display screen for the 7-1 inspection process. Figures 11B to 11D can be displayed all at once or sequentially, and can proceed to the next screen when a predetermined time has elapsed. In Figure 11B, any number can be shown on the screen. In Figure 11B, a phrase "start" can be displayed for any one of the numbers on the screen. Also, a phrase "end" can be displayed for the last number among the arbitrary numbers. In Figures 11C to 11F, an instruction to select the number 1 written as "start" and then select the next numbers in ascending order can be output. Also, in Figures 11C to 11F, when the hand image 1102 touches the numbers 1, 2, and 3 in order, the color of the touched numbers may change. And the touched numbers can be displayed so as to be connected to each other by line segments.
[0247] Figure 11G shows a screen notifying the start of a practice inspection process (7-1 practice inspection process) for the 7-1 inspection process. When the practice start button 1103 is input, the screen can be switched to the next screen.
[0248] Figure 11H shows a screen for executing the 7-1 practice inspection process. On the screen of Figure 11H, for example, a 7-1 practice instruction to select numbers in ascending order and any numbers can be displayed. A phrase "start" can be displayed for the first number to be selected among the arbitrary numbers. Also, a phrase "end" can be displayed for the last number to be selected among the arbitrary numbers.
[0249] Figure 11I shows a screen provided at the time of the first practice wrong answer, and Figure 11J shows a screen provided at the time of two or more consecutive practice wrong answers. In Figures 11I and 11J, an instruction to reselect numbers can be output.
[0250] Figure 11K shows a screen presented when the time during which no number is selected has elapsed for a preset time (e.g., 10 seconds). In Figure 11K, an instruction text for selecting a number to start the inspection can be output.
[0251] Figure 11L shows a screen presented when the time during which no next number is selected has elapsed for a preset time (e.g., 20 seconds) after one or more numbers have been selected. In Figure 11L, an instruction text for selecting the next sequential number can be output.
[0252] Figure 11M shows a screen on which an instruction text for ending the 7-1 practice inspection process and selecting the inspection start button 1104 to execute the 7-1 inspection process is output.
[0253] Figure 11N shows a countdown for executing the 7-1 inspection process. In Figure 11N, before starting the 7-1 inspection process, a screen of 3, 2, 1, start can be displayed.
[0254] Figures 11O and 11P show the execution screens of the 7-1 inspection process. On the screens of Figures 11O and 11P, for example, a 7-1 instruction text for selecting numbers in ascending order and any numbers can be displayed. A phrase "start" can be displayed for the first number to be selected among the arbitrary numbers. Also, a phrase "end" can be displayed for the last number to be selected among the arbitrary numbers. On the screen of Figure 11P, the color of the number for which the touch is completed can be changed. On the screen of Figure 11P, the numbers for which the touches are completed can be displayed so as to be connected to each other by line segments. From Figures 11O and 11P, the user can select numbers while looking at the progress bar 1105 for which the elapsed time is counted.
[0255] FIG. 11Q shows the screen provided at the time of the first incorrect answer, and FIG. 11R shows the screen provided at the time of two or more incorrect answers. In FIGS. 11Q and 11R, the numbers selected in the wrong order can change to another color (for example, red). Also, in FIGS. 11Q and 11R, an instruction text for reselecting the numbers can be output. Even in the situation where the instruction text is output, the elapsed time can continue to be counted.
[0256] FIG. 11S shows the screen presented when the time when no numbers have been selected has elapsed a preset time (for example, 10 seconds). In FIG. 11S, an instruction text for selecting a number to start the inspection can be output.
[0257] FIG. 11T shows the screen presented when the time when no next number has been selected has elapsed a preset time (for example, 20 seconds) after one or more numbers have been selected. In FIG. 11T, an instruction text for selecting the next sequential number can be output.
[0258] FIG. 11U shows the screen notifying the completion of the execution of the 7-1 inspection process and the start of the next inspection process.
[0259] FIGS. 12A to 12N are exemplary diagrams of the screens provided to the user terminal 200 for executing the 7-2 inspection process.
[0260] FIG. 12A shows the start screen of the 7-2 inspection process. When the input of the start button 2101 is received, the screen can be switched to the next screen and an explanatory display screen can be displayed.
[0261] Figures 12B and 12C show an explanatory display screen for the 7-2 inspection process. Figures 12B and 12C can be displayed all at once or sequentially, and can proceed to the next screen when a predetermined time has elapsed. In Figure 12B, arbitrary numbers and arbitrary days of the week can be shown on the screen. In Figure 12B, an instruction text for alternately selecting numbers and days of the week can be displayed. A phrase "start" can be displayed for any one of the arbitrary numbers. Also, a phrase "end" can be displayed for the last number among the arbitrary numbers. In Figure 12C, an instruction to select the number 1 written as "start" and select the month which is the start of the day of the week can be output. In Figure 12C, when the hand image 1202 touches the number 1, month, 2, Tuesday, 3 in order, the color of the touched number and day of the week can change. And the touched number and day of the week can be displayed so as to be connected to each other by a line segment.
[0262] Figure 12D shows a screen notifying the start of a practice inspection process (7-2 practice inspection process) for the 7-2 inspection process. When the practice start button 1203 is input, it can be switched to the next screen.
[0263] Figure 12E shows a screen for executing the 7-2 practice inspection process. On the screen of Figure 12E, for example, a 7-2 practice instruction text for alternately selecting numbers and days of the week and arbitrary numbers and arbitrary days of the week can be displayed. A phrase "start" can be displayed for the number to be selected first among the arbitrary numbers. Also, a phrase "end" can be displayed for the last number or day of the week to be selected among the arbitrary numbers. The user can perform a practice inspection by alternately selecting numbers and days of the week while looking at the arbitrary numbers and arbitrary days of the week shown in Figure 12E.
[0264] Figure 12F shows a screen on which an instruction to end the 7-2 practice inspection process and select the inspection start button 1204 to execute the 7-2 inspection process is output.
[0265] Figure 12G shows a countdown for executing the 7-2 inspection process. In Figure 12G, before the start of the 7-2 inspection process, a screen with 3, 2, 1, start can be displayed.
[0266] Figures 12H and 12I show the execution screens of the 7-2 inspection process. On the screens of Figures 12H and 12I, for example, a 7-2 instruction text for alternately selecting numbers and days of the week, and any numbers and any days of the week can be displayed. A phrase "start" can be displayed for the number that should be selected first among the arbitrary numbers. Also, a phrase "end" can be displayed for the number or day of the week that should be selected last among the arbitrary numbers and arbitrary days of the week. On the screen of Figure 12I, the color of the number or day of the week for which the touch is completed can change. On the screen of Figure 12I, the numbers and days of the week for which the touch is completed can be displayed so as to be connected to each other by line segments. From Figures 12H and 12I, the user can alternately select numbers and days of the week while viewing a progress bar 1205 in which the elapsed time is counted.
[0267] Figure 12J shows a screen provided at the time of the first incorrect answer, and Figure 12K shows a screen provided at the time of two or more incorrect answers. In Figures 12J and 12K, an instruction text for reselecting one or more of the numbers and days of the week can be output. Even in a situation where the instruction text is output, the elapsed time can continue to be counted.
[0268] Figure 12L shows a screen presented when the time during which no number has been selected has elapsed a predetermined time (for example, 10 seconds). In Figure 12L, an instruction text for selecting a number to start the inspection can be output.
[0269] Figure 12M shows a screen presented when the time during which no next number or day of the week has been selected after one or more numbers or days of the week have been selected has elapsed a predetermined time (for example, 20 seconds). In Figure 12M, an instruction text for selecting the next sequential number or day of the week can be output.
[0270] FIG. 12N shows a screen indicating that the execution of the seventh inspection process is completed and notifying the start of the next inspection process.
[0271] Returning to FIG. 3, the first processing unit 152 can execute an eighth inspection process including an eighth - 1 inspection process and an eighth - 2 inspection process. In the present embodiment, the first processing unit 152 can execute the eighth inspection process a plurality of times.
[0272] When executing the eighth - 1 inspection process, the first processing unit 152 can show a plurality of first object presentation images including the name and shape of the first object, and provide an eighth - 1 instruction statement to the user terminal 200 for determining the size of each of the first objects and selecting the plurality of first object presentation images in descending or ascending order.
[0273] The first processing unit 152 can receive the result of selecting the first object presentation images in descending or ascending order corresponding to the eighth - 1 instruction statement from the user terminal 200, compare the selected result with the correct answer, and calculate the eighth - 1 inspection score. In the present embodiment, the eighth - 1 inspection score can be calculated such that the higher the number of selection results determined to be correct with respect to the total number of times the eighth - 1 process is executed, the higher the score.
[0274] In the present embodiment, before executing the eighth - 1 inspection process, the first processing unit 152 can provide the user terminal 200 with the execution method of the eighth - 1 inspection process in one or more of text and an explanatory display screen.
[0275] After the execution of the eighth - 1 inspection process is completed, the first processing unit 152 can execute the eighth - 2 inspection process.
[0276] When executing the eighth - 2 inspection process, the first processing unit 152 can show a plurality of second object presentation images including the shape of the second object, and provide an eighth - 2 instruction statement to the user terminal 200 for determining the weight of each of the second objects and selecting the plurality of second object presentation images in descending or ascending order.
[0277] The first processing unit 152 can receive the result of selecting the second object presentation image in descending or ascending order corresponding to the 8-2 instruction sentence from the user terminal 200, compare the selected result with the correct answer, and calculate the 8-1 inspection score.
[0278] In the present embodiment, before executing the 8-2 inspection process, the first processing unit 152 can provide the user terminal 200 with the execution method of the 8-2 inspection process in one or more of text and an explanation display screen. In the present embodiment, the 8-2 inspection score can be calculated such that the higher the number of selection results determined to be correct with respect to the total number of times the 8-2 process is executed.
[0279] As an alternative embodiment, the first processing unit 152 can calculate the 8 inspection score by adding the 8-1 inspection score and the 8-2 inspection score. Also, the first processing unit 152 can use each of the 8-1 inspection score and the 8-2 inspection score without adding them, when evaluating the decline of the cognitive function. In the present embodiment, when the 8 inspection score is higher than the cut-off score of the 8 standard, it can be evaluated that the semantic memory is good, and when the 8 inspection score is lower than the cut-off score of the 8 standard, it can be evaluated that the semantic memory has declined.
[0280] Figs. 13A to 13J are exemplary views of the screen provided to the user terminal 200 for executing the 8 inspection process. Figs. 13A to 13E are exemplary views of the screen for explaining the 8-1 inspection process, and Figs. 13F to 13J are exemplary views of the screen for explaining the 8-2 inspection process.
[0281] Fig. 13A shows the start screen of the 8-1 inspection process. When the input of the start button 1301 is received, it can be switched to the 8-1 inspection process screen.
[0282] Figure 13B provides the execution method of the 8-1 inspection process in text and shows the screen indicating the start of the 8-1 inspection process. When the start button 1302 is input, it can switch to the next screen.
[0283] Figure 13C shows the screen for executing the 8-1 inspection process. After the user confirms the 8-1 instruction text, while looking at the progress bar 1303, the user can select multiple first object presentation images in ascending order of size. If the user needs to modify the selection, the input correction button 1304 is input for re-selection. When the user completes the selection and inputs the confirmation button 1305, it can switch to the next screen.
[0284] Figure 13D shows the execution result screen of the 8-1 inspection process. Numbers indicating the order selected by the user can be output on the first object presentation image.
[0285] Figure 13E shows the screen indicating that the execution of the 8-1 inspection process is completed and notifying the start of the next inspection process.
[0286] Figure 13F shows the start screen of the 8-2 inspection process.
[0287] Figure 13G provides the execution method of the 8-2 inspection process in text and shows the screen indicating the start of the 8-2 inspection process. When the start button 1306 is input, it can switch to the next screen.
[0288] Figure 13H shows the screen for executing the 8-2 inspection process. After the user confirms the 8-2 instruction text, while looking at the progress bar 1307, the user can select multiple second object presentation images in ascending order of weight. If the user needs to modify the selection, the input correction button 1308 is input for re-selection. When the user completes the selection and inputs the confirmation button 1309, it can switch to the next screen.
[0289] FIG. 13I shows a screen indicating that the execution of the 8-2 inspection process is completed and notifying the start of the next inspection process.
[0290] Returning to FIG. 3, the first processing unit 152 can execute a ninth inspection process including a ninth inspection process. In the present embodiment, the first processing unit 152 can execute the ninth inspection process excluding the practice inspection a plurality of times.
[0291] When executing the ninth inspection process, the first processing unit 152 can provide any one main image and a narration for the main image on the screen, and after the provision of the narration is completed, provide a ninth instruction sentence to the user terminal 200 that allows the user to select an answer to a question while viewing a plurality of sub-images included in the main image.
[0292] The first processing unit 152 can receive a selection result of an answer to the question corresponding to the ninth instruction sentence from the user terminal 200, compare the selected result with the correct answer, and calculate a ninth inspection score. In the present embodiment, the ninth inspection score can be calculated to be higher as the number of selection results determined to be correct is larger.
[0293] In the present embodiment, before executing the ninth inspection process, the first processing unit 152 can provide the user terminal 200 with a method of executing the ninth inspection process in one or more of text and an explanatory display screen, and can cause the user terminal 200 to execute a practice inspection for the ninth inspection process.
[0294] In the present embodiment, when the ninth inspection score is higher than the cut-off score of the ninth standard, it can be evaluated that the understanding of the social situation is better, and when the ninth inspection score is lower than the cut-off score of the ninth standard, it can be evaluated that the understanding of the social situation has declined.
[0295] FIGS. 14A to 14G are exemplary diagrams of screens provided to the user terminal 200 for executing the ninth inspection process.
[0296] Figure 14A shows the start screen of the ninth inspection process. When the input of the start button 1401 is received, the screen can be switched to the next screen, and an explanatory display screen can be displayed.
[0297] Figure 14B shows the explanatory display screen. Figure 14B can show that it is an inspection where a short story is listened to and questions are answered.
[0298] Figure 14C shows a screen notifying the start of the ninth inspection process. When the inspection start button 1402 is input, it can be switched to the ninth inspection screen.
[0299] Figures 14D to 14F show the ninth inspection screen. Figure 14D can provide any one main image on the screen and a narration for the main image. Figure 14E can display a plurality of sub-images included in the main image and an instruction text asking questions after the provision of the narration is completed. Figure 14F can display a plurality of sub-images, a question, and answer buttons (for example, a "yes" button 1403 and a "no" button 1404) that can be selected for the question. The user can select one of the answer buttons as an answer to the question while viewing the plurality of sub-images.
[0300] Figure 14G shows a screen notifying that the execution of the ninth inspection process is completed and the start of the next inspection process.
[0301] Returning to Figure 3, the first processing unit 152 can execute the tenth inspection process. In the present embodiment, the first processing unit 152 can execute the tenth inspection process (excluding the practice inspection) a plurality of times.
[0302] When performing the tenth inspection process, the first processing unit 152 can show a plurality of predetermined presentation figures and provide an instruction text for the user terminal 200 to select a figure with a different color from the plurality of predetermined presentation figures.
[0303] The first processing unit 152 can receive, from the user terminal 200, a result of selecting a figure with a different color from a plurality of preset presentation figures corresponding to the tenth instruction statement, and calculate a tenth inspection score by comparing the selected result with the correct answer. In the present embodiment, the tenth inspection score can be calculated such that the higher the number of selection results determined to be correct with respect to the total number of times the tenth inspection process is executed, the higher the score.
[0304] In the present embodiment, before executing the tenth inspection process, the first processing unit 152 can provide the user terminal 200 with one or more of a text and an explanatory display screen regarding a method of executing the tenth inspection process, and cause the user terminal 200 to execute a practice inspection for the tenth inspection process.
[0305] In the present embodiment, when the tenth inspection score is higher than the cut-off score of the tenth standard, it can be evaluated that the color discrimination ability is good, and when the tenth inspection score is lower than the cut-off score of the tenth standard, it can be evaluated that the color discrimination ability has deteriorated.
[0306] Figs. 15A to 15J are exemplary views of the screens provided to the user terminal 200 for executing the tenth inspection process.
[0307] Fig. 15A shows a start screen of the tenth inspection process. When an input to the start button 1501 is received, the screen can be switched to the next screen.
[0308] Fig. 15B shows a screen that provides a text regarding a method of executing the tenth inspection process and notifies the start of a practice inspection process (tenth practice inspection process) for the tenth inspection process. When the practice start button 1502 is input, the screen can be switched to the next screen.
[0309] Figure 15C shows the screen for executing the 10th practice inspection process. After the user checks the 10th practice instruction text, while looking at the progress bar 1503, the user can select a figure with a different color from a plurality of preset presented figures. Once the selection of the figure is completed or the countdown of the time limit is completed, the screen can be switched to the next one.
[0310] Figure 15D shows the execution result screen of the 10th practice inspection process shown in Figure 15C. If the selected figure is the correct answer, it can be output as being correct using a correct answer symbol and / or a correct answer sound effect. If the selected figure is an incorrect answer, it can be output as being an incorrect answer using an incorrect answer symbol and / or an incorrect answer sound effect.
[0311] Figure 15E shows the screen notifying the re-execution of the 10th practice inspection process. If the execution result of the 10th practice inspection process is an incorrect answer, the 10th practice inspection process can be re-executed.
[0312] Figure 15F shows the screen indicating that the execution of the 10th practice inspection process is completed and notifying the execution of this inspection.
[0313] Figure 15G provides the execution method of the 10th inspection process in text and shows the screen notifying the start of the 10th inspection process. When the start button 1504 is input, the screen can be switched to the next one.
[0314] Figure 15H shows the screen for executing the 10th inspection process. After the user checks the 10th instruction text, while looking at the progress bar 1505, the user can select a figure with a different color from a plurality of preset presented figures. Once the selection of the figure is completed or the countdown of the time limit is completed, the screen can be switched to the next one.
[0315] FIG. 15I shows the execution result screen of the 10th inspection process shown in FIG. 15H. When the selected figure is correct, it is possible to output that it is correct using a correct symbol and / or a correct sound effect. Also, when the selected figure is an incorrect answer, it is possible to output that it is an incorrect answer using an incorrect answer symbol and / or an incorrect answer sound effect.
[0316] FIG. 15J illustrates a screen notifying that the execution of the 10th inspection process is completed and waiting for the inspection result to be output.
[0317] Returning to FIG. 3, when the execution of the 1st to 10th inspection processes of the 1st processing unit 152 is completed, the 2nd processing unit 153 can execute a category classification process of classifying at least one inspection item among a plurality of inspection items into any one of a plurality of neurocognitive categories.
[0318] The 2nd processing unit 153 can classify the 2nd inspection item and the 4th inspection item into the 1st neurocognitive category. The 2nd processing unit 153 can classify the 6th inspection item and the 9th inspection item into the 2nd neurocognitive category. The 2nd processing unit 153 can classify the 8th inspection item into the 3rd neurocognitive category. The 2nd processing unit 153 can classify the 10th inspection item into the 4th neurocognitive category. The 2nd processing unit 153 can classify the 1st inspection item, the 3rd inspection item, the 5th inspection item, and the 7th inspection item into the 5th neurocognitive category.
[0319] When the execution of the category classification process of the 2nd processing unit 153 is completed, the 3rd processing unit 154 can execute an evaluation process of evaluating whether there is a decline in cognitive function in the neurocognitive category based on the inspection scores for the inspection items classified into the neurocognitive category.
[0320] In the present embodiment, when it is evaluated that there is a decline in cognitive function in one or more of the 1st to 5th neurocognitive categories, the 3rd processing unit 154 can generate an evaluation result that outputs to the user that there is a possibility of mild cognitive impairment.
[0321] In this embodiment, the evaluation process can include a first evaluation process to a fifth evaluation process.
[0322] The third processing unit 154 can execute a first evaluation process for evaluating whether there is a decline in cognitive function in the first neurocognitive category based on the second test score and the fourth test score.
[0323] When executing the first evaluation process, the third processing unit 154 can compare the second test score for the second test item with the second reference score, and generate a first comparison result when the second test score is less than the second reference score. In this embodiment, the second test score can include a language cue memory test score. In this embodiment, the second reference score can include the second test score of the normal group where the second Z-score is the second standard deviation (for example, -1.5SD).
[0324] In this embodiment, the first comparison result can include a first-1 comparison result and a first-2 comparison result. The first-1 comparison result can be generated when the second test score is less than the second reference score. From the first-1 comparison result, it can be seen that the user's language memory has declined. The first-2 comparison result can be generated when the second test score is greater than or equal to the second reference score. From the first-2 comparison result, it can be seen that the user's language memory is good. In this embodiment, the first comparison result can be replaced with the first-1 comparison result.
[0325] When executing the first evaluation process, the third processing unit 154 can compare the fourth test score for the fourth test item with the fourth reference score, and generate a second comparison result when the fourth test score is less than the fourth reference score. In this embodiment, the fourth test score can include a visual diagram memory test score. In this embodiment, the fourth reference score can include the fourth test score of the normal group where the fourth Z-score is the fourth standard deviation (for example, -1.5SD).
[0326] In this embodiment, the second comparison result can include the first second comparison result and the second second comparison result. The first second comparison result can be generated when the fourth test score is less than the fourth reference score. From the first second comparison result, it can be seen that the user's visual perception memory has declined. The second second comparison result can be generated when the fourth test score is greater than or equal to the fourth reference score. From the second second comparison result, it can be seen that the user's visual perception memory is good. In this embodiment, the second comparison result can be replaced with the first second comparison result.
[0327] When one or more of the first comparison result and the second comparison result are generated, the third processing unit 154 can evaluate that there is a decline in the cognitive function in the first neurocognitive category, that is, memory.
[0328] The third processing unit 154 can execute a second evaluation process for evaluating whether there is a decline in the cognitive function in the second neurocognitive category based on the sixth test score and the eighth test score.
[0329] When executing the second evaluation process, the third processing unit 154 can compare the sixth test score for the sixth test item with the sixth reference score, and generate a third comparison result when the sixth test score is less than the sixth reference score. In this embodiment, the sixth test score can include a facial emotion test score. In this embodiment, the sixth reference score can include the sixth test score of the normal group where the sixth Z-score is the sixth standard deviation (for example, -1.5SD).
[0330] In this embodiment, the third comparison result can include a third-1 comparison result and a third-2 comparison result. The third-1 comparison result can be generated when the eighth test score is less than the eighth reference score. From the third-1 comparison result, it can be seen that the user's ability to recognize the intensity of emotions has decreased. The third-2 comparison result can be generated when the eighth test score is greater than or equal to the eighth reference score. From the third-2 comparison result, it can be seen that the user's ability to recognize the intensity of emotions is good. In this embodiment, the third comparison result can be replaced by the third-1 comparison result. In this embodiment, the third comparison result can be replaced by the third-1 comparison result.
[0331] When executing the second evaluation process, the third processing unit 154 can compare the ninth test score for the ninth test item with the ninth reference score, and generate a fourth comparison result when the ninth test score is less than the fourth reference score. In this embodiment, the ninth test score can include a theory of mind test score. In this embodiment, the ninth reference score can include the ninth test score of the normal group where the ninth Z-score is the ninth standard deviation (for example, -1.5SD).
[0332] In this embodiment, the fourth comparison result can include a fourth-1 comparison result and a fourth-2 comparison result. The fourth-1 comparison result can be generated when the ninth test score is less than the ninth reference score. From the fourth-1 comparison result, it can be seen that the user's understanding of the social situation has decreased. The fourth-2 comparison result can be generated when the ninth test score is greater than or equal to the ninth reference score. From the fourth-2 comparison result, it can be seen that the user's understanding of the social situation is good. In this embodiment, the fourth comparison result can be replaced by the fourth-1 comparison result. When one or more of the third comparison result and the fourth comparison result are generated, the third processing unit 154 can evaluate that there is a decline in the cognitive function in the second neurocognitive category, that is, social cognition.
[0333] The third processing unit 154 can execute a third evaluation process for evaluating whether there is a decline in cognitive function in the third neurocognitive category based on the eighth test score.
[0334] When executing the third evaluation process, the third processing unit 154 can compare the eighth test score for the eighth test item with the eighth reference score, and generate a fifth comparison result when the eighth test score is less than the eighth reference score. In the present embodiment, the eighth test score can include the size and weight test score. In the present embodiment, the eighth reference score can include the eighth test score of the normal group where the eighth Z-score is the eighth standard deviation (for example, -1.5SD).
[0335] In the present embodiment, the fifth comparison result can include a fifth-1 comparison result and a fifth-2 comparison result. The fifth-1 comparison result can be generated when the eighth test score is less than the eighth reference score. From the fifth-1 comparison result, it can be seen that the user's semantic memory has declined. The fifth-2 comparison result can be generated when the eighth test score is greater than or equal to the eighth reference score. From the fifth-2 comparison result, it can be seen that the user's semantic memory is good. In the present embodiment, the fifth comparison result can be replaced with the fifth-1 comparison result.
[0336] The third processing unit 154 can execute a fourth evaluation process for evaluating whether there is a decline in cognitive function in the fourth neurocognitive category based on the tenth test score.
[0337] When executing the fourth evaluation process, the third processing unit 154 can compare the tenth test score for the tenth test item with the tenth reference score, and generate a sixth comparison result when the tenth test score is less than the tenth reference score. In the present embodiment, the tenth test score can include the color perception test score. In the present embodiment, the tenth reference score can include the tenth test score of the normal group where the tenth Z-score is the tenth standard deviation (for example, -1.5SD).
[0338] In this embodiment, the sixth comparison result can include a sixth-1 comparison result and a sixth-2 comparison result. The sixth-1 comparison result can be generated when the tenth inspection score is less than the tenth reference score. From the sixth-1 comparison result, it can be seen that the user's color discrimination ability has decreased. The sixth-2 comparison result can be generated when the tenth inspection score is greater than or equal to the tenth reference score. From the sixth-2 comparison result, it can be seen that the user's color discrimination ability is good. In this embodiment, the sixth comparison result can be replaced with the sixth-1 comparison result.
[0339] The third processing unit 154 can execute a fifth evaluation process for evaluating whether there is a decline in the cognitive function in the fifth neural cognitive category based on the first inspection score, the third inspection score, the fifth inspection score, and the seventh inspection score.
[0340] When executing the fifth evaluation process, the third processing unit 154 can compare the first inspection score for the first inspection item with the first reference score, and generate a seventh comparison result when the first inspection score is less than the first reference score. In this embodiment, the first inspection score can include a fluency inspection score. In this embodiment, the first reference score can include the first inspection score of the normal group where the first Z-score is the first standard deviation (for example, -1.5SD).
[0341] In this embodiment, the seventh comparison result can include a seventh-1 comparison result and a seventh-2 comparison result. The seventh-1 comparison result can be generated when the first inspection score is less than the first reference score. From the seventh-1 comparison result, it can be seen that the user's fluency has decreased. The seventh-2 comparison result can be generated when the first inspection score is greater than or equal to the first reference score. From the seventh-2 comparison result, it can be seen that the user's fluency is good. In this embodiment, the seventh comparison result can be replaced with the seventh-1 comparison result.
[0342] When executing the fifth evaluation process, the third processing unit 154 can compare the third inspection score for the third inspection item with the third reference score, and generate an eighth comparison result when the third inspection score is less than the third reference score. In the present embodiment, the third inspection score can include a symbol-digit matching inspection score. In the present embodiment, the third reference score can include the third inspection score of the normal group whose third Z-score is the third standard deviation (for example, -1.5SD).
[0343] In the present embodiment, the eighth comparison result can include an eighth-1 comparison result and an eighth-2 comparison result. The eighth-1 comparison result can be generated when the third inspection score is less than the third reference score. From the eighth-1 comparison result, it can be known that the user's inhibitory function has declined. The eighth-2 comparison result can be generated when the third inspection score is greater than or equal to the third reference score. From the eighth-2 comparison result, it can be known that the user's inhibitory function is good. In the present embodiment, the eighth comparison result can be replaced with the eighth-1 comparison result.
[0344] When executing the fifth evaluation process, the third processing unit 154 can compare the fifth inspection score for the fifth inspection item with the fifth reference score, and generate a ninth comparison result when the fifth inspection score is less than the fifth reference score. In the present embodiment, the fifth inspection score can include a spatio-temporal attention inspection score. In the present embodiment, the fifth reference score can include the fifth inspection score of the normal group whose fifth Z-score is the fifth standard deviation (for example, -1.5SD).
[0345] In the present embodiment, the ninth comparison result can include a ninth-1 comparison result and a ninth-2 comparison result. The ninth-1 comparison result can be generated when the fifth inspection score is less than the fifth reference score. From the ninth-1 comparison result, it can be known that the user's attention and working memory have declined. The ninth-2 comparison result can be generated when the fifth inspection score is greater than or equal to the fifth reference score. From the ninth-2 comparison result, it can be known that the user's attention and working memory are good. In the present embodiment, the ninth comparison result can be replaced with the ninth-1 comparison result.
[0346] When the third processing unit 154 executes the fifth evaluation process, it can compare the seventh inspection score for the seventh inspection item with the seventh reference score, and generate a tenth comparison result when the seventh inspection score is less than the seventh reference score. In this embodiment, the seventh inspection score can include a healing inspection score. In this embodiment, the seventh reference score can include the seventh inspection score of the normal group where the seventh Z-score is the seventh standard deviation (for example, -1.5SD).
[0347] In this embodiment, the tenth comparison result can include a tenth - 1 comparison result and a tenth - 2 comparison result. The tenth - 1 comparison result can be generated when the seventh inspection score is less than the seventh reference score. From the tenth - 1 comparison result, it can be known that the user's language inhibitory ability has decreased. The tenth - 2 comparison result can be generated when the seventh inspection score is greater than or equal to the seventh reference score. From the tenth - 2 comparison result, it can be known that the user's language inhibitory ability is good. In this embodiment, the tenth comparison result can be replaced with the tenth - 1 comparison result.
[0348] When one or more of the seventh comparison result, the eighth comparison result, the ninth comparison result, and the tenth comparison result are generated, the third processing unit 154 can evaluate that there is a cognitive function decline in the fifth neurocognitive category, that is, attention execution.
[0349] After the execution of the discrimination process is completed, the transmission unit 155 can transmit the discrimination result to the user terminal 200 and / or the terminal (not shown) of the medical examiner (for example, a doctor).
[0350] FIG. 16 is a block diagram shown to schematically explain the configuration of an inspection device for evaluating cognitive function decline according to another embodiment. In the following description, parts overlapping with the descriptions of FIGS. 1 - 15 are omitted. Referring to FIG. 16, an inspection device 100 according to another embodiment can include a processor 170 and a memory 180.
[0351] In this embodiment, the processor 170 can process the functions executed by the communication unit 110, the storage medium 120, the program storage unit 130, the database 140, the inspection management unit 150, and the control unit 160 disclosed in FIGS. 2 and 3.
[0352] Such a processor 170 can control the operation of the entire inspection apparatus 100. Here, the "processor" can mean, for example, a data processing apparatus incorporated in hardware having a physically structured circuit for executing functions represented by codes or instruction words included in a program. As an example of such a data processing apparatus incorporated in hardware, processing apparatuses such as a microprocessor, a central processing unit, a processor core, a multiprocessor, an ASIC, and an FPGA can be covered, but the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto.
[0353] The memory 180 is operably connected to the processor 170 and can store at least one code related to the operations executed by the processor 170.
[0354] Furthermore, the memory 180 can execute a function of temporarily or permanently storing data processed by the processor 170 and can include the data constructed in the database 140. Here, the memory 180 can include a magnetic storage medium or a flash storage medium, but the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto. Such a memory 180 can include a built-in memory and / or an external memory, and can include a volatile memory such as a DRAM, an SRAM, or an SDRAM, a non-volatile memory such as an OTPROM, a PROM, an EPROM, an EEPROM, a mask ROM, a flash ROM, a NAND flash memory, or a NOR flash memory, a flash drive such as an SSD, a CF card, an SD card, a Micro-SD card, a Mini-SD card, an xD card, or a memory stick, or a storage device such as an HDD.
[0355] Figures 17 to 20 are flowcharts for explaining a test method for evaluating cognitive function decline according to the present embodiment. In the following description, parts overlapping with the description of FIGS. 1 to 16 will be omitted. The test method for evaluating cognitive function decline according to the present embodiment will be described on the assumption that the test device 100 is executed by the processor 170 with the assistance of peripheral components.
[0356] Referring to FIG. 17, in step S1710, the processor 170 can examine how well the user performs the missions presented for each of a plurality of test items, and calculate the test scores for each of the plurality of test items. In the present embodiment, step S1710 can be expressed as a test step in the claims described later.
[0357] FIG. 18 shows a detailed flowchart of the test step. Referring to FIG. 18, in step S1710-1, the processor 170 can execute a first test step for a first test item that evaluates how well the user performs the utterance of words corresponding to a predetermined presentation category within a limited time, and calculate a first test score.
[0358] In step S1710-2, after the execution of the first test step is completed, the processor 170 can execute a second test step that learns a word or a picture by informing a clue of a predetermined category, and evaluates how well the learned word or picture is remembered after a predetermined time has elapsed, and calculates a second test score.
[0359] In step S1710-3, after the execution of the second test step is completed, the processor 170 can execute a third test step that evaluates how accurately and quickly the processor 170 selects any number that matches the presented symbol image from the presented symbol image within a predetermined limited time, and calculates a third test score.
[0360] In step S1710-4, after the execution of the third inspection step is completed, the processor 170 can perform an inspection on a fourth inspection item to learn a default presentation image and evaluate how much of the learned presentation image is memorized after a predetermined time has elapsed, and execute a fourth inspection step to calculate a fourth inspection score.
[0361] In step S1710-5, after the execution of the fourth inspection step is completed, the processor 170 can perform an inspection on a fifth inspection item to evaluate whether a default presentation word and the color of the default presentation word are accurately pronounced, and execute a fifth inspection step to calculate a fifth inspection score.
[0362] In step S1710-6, after the execution of the fifth inspection step is completed, the processor 170 can perform an inspection on a sixth inspection item to evaluate whether the emotional state appearing in a default face presentation image is grasped, and execute a sixth inspection step to calculate a sixth inspection score.
[0363] In step S1710-7, after the execution of the sixth inspection step is completed, the processor 170 can perform an inspection on a seventh inspection item to evaluate how accurately and quickly the numbers presented within a predetermined time limit are selected, and also evaluate how accurately and quickly the corresponding day of the week is selected when a number and a day of the week are presented, and execute a seventh inspection step to calculate a seventh inspection score.
[0364] In step S1710-8, after the execution of the seventh inspection step is completed, the processor 170 can perform an inspection on an eighth inspection item to evaluate whether the sizes and weights of default presentation objects are arranged in descending or ascending order, and execute an eighth inspection step to calculate an eighth inspection score.
[0365] In step S1710-9, after the execution of the eighth inspection step is completed, the processor 170 can provide an arbitrary image and a narration for the arbitrary image, and execute an inspection for a ninth inspection item that evaluates the degree of understanding of the social situation based on the collection result of the number of positive and negative responses to the question after the provision of the narration is completed, and execute a ninth inspection step for calculating a ninth inspection score.
[0366] In step S1710-10, after the execution of the ninth inspection step is completed, the processor 170 can execute an inspection for a tenth inspection item that evaluates whether to find a figure in a color different from the color of a predetermined presentation figure, and execute a tenth inspection step for calculating a tenth inspection score.
[0367] Returning to FIG. 17, in step S1720, after the execution of the inspection step is completed, the processor 170 can classify at least one inspection item among a plurality of inspection items into any one of a plurality of neurocognitive categories. In the present embodiment, step S1720 can be expressed as a category classification step in the claims described later.
[0368] FIG. 19 shows a detailed flowchart of the category classification step. Referring to FIG. 19, in step S1720-1, the processor 170 can classify the second inspection item and the fourth inspection item into a first neurocognitive category that can evaluate a decline in cognitive function with respect to memory.
[0369] In step S1720-2, the processor 170 can classify the sixth inspection item and the ninth inspection item into a second neurocognitive category that can evaluate a decline in cognitive function with respect to social cognition.
[0370] In step S1720-3, the processor 170 can classify the eighth inspection item into a third neurocognitive category that can evaluate a decline in cognitive function with respect to language.
[0371] In step S1720-4, the processor 170 can classify the 10th test item into the 4th neurocognitive category that can evaluate the decline in cognitive function for perception.
[0372] In step S1720-5, the processor 170 can classify the 1st test item, the 3rd test item, the 5th test item, and the 7th test item into the 5th neurocognitive category that can evaluate the decline in cognitive function for attention execution.
[0373] Returning to FIG. 17, in step S1730, after the execution of the category classification step is completed, the processor 170 can evaluate whether there is a decline in cognitive function in the neurocognitive category based on the test scores for the test items classified into the neurocognitive category. In the present embodiment, step S1730 can be expressed as an evaluation step in the claims described later.
[0374] FIG. 20 shows a detailed flowchart of the evaluation step. Referring to FIG. 20, in step S1730-1, the processor 170 can execute the 1st evaluation process. When executing the 1st evaluation process, the processor 170 can compare the 2nd test score for the 2nd test item with the 2nd reference score, and generate a 1st comparison result when the 2nd test score is less than the 2nd reference score. When executing the 1st evaluation process, the processor 170 can compare the 4th test score for the 4th test item with the 3rd reference score, and generate a 2nd comparison result when the 4th test score is less than the 3rd reference score. When one or more of the 1st comparison result and the 2nd comparison result are generated, the processor 170 can evaluate that there is a decline in cognitive function in the 1st neurocognitive category, that is, memory.
[0375] When evaluating that there is a cognitive function decline in memory, by using only the second test item and / or the fourth test item among the first to tenth test items, compared with the resources and processing speed when executing all of the first to tenth test items, less computer resources can be used, the evaluation result can be calculated at a higher processing speed, and the accuracy and reliability of the cognitive function decline evaluation can be improved.
[0376] In step S1730-2, the processor 170 can execute the second evaluation process. When executing the second evaluation process, the processor 170 can compare the sixth test score for the sixth test item with the sixth reference score and generate a third comparison result when the sixth test score is less than the sixth reference score. When executing the second evaluation process, the processor 170 can compare the ninth test score for the ninth test item with the ninth reference score and generate a fourth comparison result when the ninth test score is less than the ninth reference score.
[0377] When one or more of the third comparison result and the fourth comparison result are generated, the processor 170 can evaluate that there is a cognitive function decline in the second neurocognitive category, that is, social cognition.
[0378] When evaluating that there is a cognitive function decline in social cognition, by using only the sixth test item and / or the ninth test item among the first to tenth test items, compared with the resources and processing speed when executing all of the first to tenth test items, less computer resources can be used, the evaluation result can be calculated at a higher processing speed, and the accuracy and reliability of the cognitive function decline evaluation can be improved.
[0379] In step S1730-3, the processor 170 can execute a third evaluation process. When executing the third evaluation process, the processor 170 compares the eighth test score for the eighth test item with the eighth reference score, and can generate a fifth comparison result when the eighth test score is less than the eighth reference score. When the fifth is generated, the processor 170 can evaluate that there is a decline in cognitive function in the third neurocognitive category, that is, language.
[0380] When evaluating that there is a decline in cognitive function in language, by using only the eighth test item among the first to tenth test items, compared with the resources and processing speed when executing all of the first to tenth test items, less computer resources can be used and the evaluation result can be calculated at a higher processing speed, thereby enhancing the accuracy and reliability of the cognitive function decline evaluation.
[0381] In step S1730-4, the processor 170 can execute a fourth evaluation process. When executing the fourth evaluation process, the processor 170 compares the fifth test score for the fifth test item with the tenth reference score, and can generate a sixth comparison result when the fifth test score is less than the tenth reference score. When the sixth comparison result is generated, the processor 170 can evaluate that there is a decline in cognitive function in the fourth neurocognitive category, that is, perception.
[0382] When evaluating that there is a decline in cognitive function in perception, by using only the tenth test item among the first to tenth test items, compared with the resources and processing speed when executing all of the first to tenth test items, less computer resources can be used and the evaluation result can be calculated at a higher processing speed, thereby enhancing the accuracy and reliability of the cognitive function decline evaluation.
[0383] In step S1730-5, the processor 170 can execute the fifth evaluation process. When executing the fifth evaluation process, the processor 170 compares the first inspection score for the first inspection item with the first reference score, and can generate a seventh comparison result if the first inspection score is less than the first reference score. When executing the fifth evaluation process, the processor 170 compares the third inspection score for the third inspection item with the third reference score, and can generate an eighth comparison result if the third inspection score is less than the third reference score. When executing the fifth evaluation process, the processor 170 compares the fifth inspection score for the fifth inspection item with the fifth reference score, and can generate a ninth comparison result if the fifth inspection score is less than the fifth reference score. When executing the fifth evaluation process, the processor 170 compares the seventh inspection score for the seventh inspection item with the seventh reference score, and can generate a tenth comparison result if the seventh inspection score is less than the seventh reference score. When one or more of the seventh comparison result, the eighth comparison result, the ninth comparison result, and the tenth comparison result are generated, the processor 170 can evaluate that there is a cognitive function decline in the fifth neurocognitive category, that is, attention execution.
[0384] When evaluating that there is a cognitive function decline in attention execution, by using only the first inspection item, the third inspection item, the fifth inspection item, and / or the seventh inspection item among the first to tenth inspection items, compared with the resources and processing speed when executing all the first to tenth inspection items, less computer resources can be used and the evaluation result can be calculated at a higher processing speed, and the accuracy and reliability of the cognitive function decline evaluation can be improved.
[0385] The embodiments of the present invention described above can be implemented in the form of a computer program that can be executed on a computer via various components, and such a computer program can be recorded on a computer-readable medium. At this time, the medium can include magnetic media such as hard disks, floppy disks, and magnetic tapes, optical recording media such as CD-ROMs and DVDs, magneto-optical media such as floptical disks, and hardware devices specially configured to store and execute program instructions such as ROMs, RAMs, and flash memories.
[0386] On the other hand, the computer program can be one that is specially designed and configured for the present invention or that is known and usable by those skilled in the field of computer software. Examples of computer programs can include not only machine language code created by a compiler but also high-level language code that can be executed by a computer using an interpreter or the like.
[0387] In the specification of the present invention (especially in the claims), the use of the term "the" and similar directive terms can apply to both singular and plural. Also, when a range is described in the present invention, the invention including the application of individual values belonging to the range (in the absence of a contrary description) is the same as when each individual value constituting the range is described in the detailed description of the invention.
[0388] When there is no description that clearly states or contradicts the order of the steps constituting the method according to the present invention, the steps can be performed in an appropriate order. The present invention is not necessarily limited according to the described order of the steps. In the present invention, the use of all examples or exemplary terms (e.g., etc.) is merely for explaining the present invention in detail, and the scope of the present invention is not limited by the above examples or exemplary terms unless otherwise limited by the claims. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications, combinations, and changes can be made within the scope of the claims or their equivalents constituted by design conditions and factors.
[0389] Therefore, the idea of the present invention should not be limited and determined to be limited to the above-described embodiments, and not only the claims described below, but also all ranges equivalent or equivalently changed therefrom belong to the category of the idea of the present invention.
Claims
1. A test method for evaluating cognitive decline, which is executed by a processor of a test device for evaluating cognitive decline, comprising: testing how well a mission presented for each of a plurality of test items for a user is performed, and calculating a test score for each of the plurality of test items; a category classification step of classifying at least one of the plurality of test items into any one of a plurality of neurocognitive categories based on the type of the test item; an evaluation step of evaluating whether there is cognitive decline in the neurocognitive category based on the test score for the test item classified into the neurocognitive category; wherein the category classification step includes a step of classifying any one of the plurality of test items into a first neurocognitive category capable of differentiating cognitive decline with respect to memory or a fifth neurocognitive category capable of differentiating cognitive decline with respect to attention and execution. A test method for evaluating cognitive decline.
2. The test step includes a third test step of performing a test on a third test item for evaluating how accurately and quickly an arbitrary number matching a presented symbol image is selected within a predetermined time limit, and calculating a third test score. The category classification step includes a step of classifying the third test item into a fifth neurocognitive category capable of differentiating cognitive decline with respect to attention and execution. The test method for evaluating cognitive decline according to claim 1.
3. The test step includes a seventh test step of performing a test on a seventh test item for evaluating how accurately and quickly a presented number is selected within a predetermined time limit, and how accurately and quickly a day of the week corresponding to the number is selected when the number and the day of the week are presented, and calculating a seventh test score. The category classification step includes a step of classifying the seventh test item into a fifth neurocognitive category capable of differentiating cognitive decline with respect to attention and execution.
4. The test step includes a first test step of performing a test on a first test item for evaluating how well the user performs speech of words belonging to a predetermined presentation category within a time limit, and calculating a first test score. The category classification step including the step of classifying the first test item into a fifth neurocognitive category capable of differentiating cognitive function decline with respect to attentional execution The test method for evaluating cognitive function decline according to claim 1
5. The test step includes executing a test for a second test item that causes the user to learn a word or picture by indicating a clue of a predetermined category and evaluating how much of the learned word or picture is remembered after a predetermined time has elapsed, and calculating a second test score, including a second test step The category classification step includes classifying the second test item into a first neurocognitive category capable of differentiating cognitive function decline with respect to memory The test method for evaluating cognitive function decline according to claim 1
6. The test step includes executing a test for a fourth test item that causes the user to learn a predetermined presented image and evaluating how much of the learned presented image is remembered after a predetermined time has elapsed, and calculating a fourth test score, including a fourth test step The category classification step includes classifying the fourth test item into a first neurocognitive category capable of differentiating cognitive function decline with respect to memory The test method for evaluating cognitive function decline according to claim 1
7. The test step includes executing a test for a fifth test item that evaluates whether the user correctly pronounces a predetermined presented word and the color of the predetermined presented word, and calculating a fifth test score, including a fifth test step The category classification step includes classifying the fifth test item into a fifth neurocognitive category capable of differentiating cognitive function decline with respect to attentional execution The test method for evaluating cognitive function decline according to claim 1
8. A computer-readable recording medium storing a computer program for causing a computer to execute the method according to claim 1
9. A test device for evaluating cognitive function decline, comprising a processor, and a memory operably connected to the processor and storing at least one code executed by the processor, when the memory is executed via the processor, the processor examines how much of the missions presented to the user for each of a plurality of test items are completed, and executes a test process for calculating test scores for each of the plurality of test items Execute a category classification process that classifies at least one of the plurality of test items into any one of a plurality of neurocognitive categories based on the types of the test items. Store code for executing an evaluation process that evaluates whether there is a decline in cognitive function in the neurocognitive category based on the test scores for the test items classified into the neurocognitive category. When causing the processor to execute the category classification process, the memory Store code for classifying any one of the plurality of test items into a first neurocognitive category capable of discriminating a decline in cognitive function for memory or a fifth neurocognitive category capable of discriminating a decline in cognitive function for attention and execution. A test device for evaluating cognitive function decline.
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