Testing systems, testing methods, and programs

Abstract

To enable prediction of the future progression of cognitive decline. [Solution] The examination system comprises an evaluation unit that derives evaluation information indicating the degree of cognitive function based on the voice of the subject uttering predetermined words in a cognitive function test conducted at predetermined intervals; a memory processing unit that stores the evaluation information derived by the evaluation unit for each cognitive function test in a memory unit in association with the subject; and an estimation unit that estimates the future changes in the subject's cognitive function based on the evaluation information stored in the memory unit.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an inspection system, an inspection method, and a program. [Background Art]

[0002] There is known a technique for evaluating a subject's cognitive function based on verbal answers from the subject each time a plurality of two-digit numbers are output by voice at fixed time intervals (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior Art Literature] [Patent Literature]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent No. 6815616 [Summary of the Invention] [Problem to be Solved by the Invention]

[0004] Since the degree of progression of cognitive decline varies between individuals, for example, in the case of regular inspections conducted about once a year from once every six months, there are cases where cognitive function has declined significantly before the next inspection is performed. Considering this, it is required to make it possible to predict the degree of progression of future functional decline based on, for example, past inspection histories obtained through regular inspections and the like.

[0005] In view of the above points, an object of the present invention is to enable prediction of the degree of progression of future functional decline. [Means for Solving the Problem]

[0006] One aspect of the present invention that solves the above-mentioned problems is an examination system comprising: an evaluation unit that derives evaluation information indicating the degree of cognitive function based on the voice of a subject uttering predetermined words in advance during a dementia examination conducted at predetermined intervals; a memory processing unit that stores the evaluation information derived by the evaluation unit for each dementia examination in a memory unit in association with the subject; and an estimation unit that estimates the future changes in the subject's cognitive function based on the evaluation information stored in the memory unit.

[0007] One aspect of the present invention is a testing method in a testing system, comprising: an evaluation step in which an evaluation unit derives evaluation information indicating the degree of cognitive function based on the voice of a test subject uttering predetermined words in advance during a cognitive function test performed at predetermined intervals; a memory processing step in which a memory processing unit stores the evaluation information derived in the evaluation step in a memory unit in association with the test subject for each cognitive function test; and an estimation step in which an estimation unit estimates the future changes in the cognitive function of the test subject based on the evaluation information stored in the memory unit.

[0008] One aspect of the present invention is a program that causes a computer in an examination system to function as an evaluation unit that derives evaluation information indicating the degree of cognitive function based on the voice of a subject uttering predetermined words in a cognitive function test that is performed at predetermined intervals; a memory processing unit that stores the evaluation information derived by the evaluation unit for each cognitive function test in a memory unit in association with the subject; and an estimation unit that estimates the future changes in the subject's cognitive function based on the evaluation information stored in the memory unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to predict the degree of future cognitive decline. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1]This figure shows an example of the overall configuration of the inspection system in this embodiment. [Figure 2] This figure shows an example of the functional configuration of the inspection environment terminal in this embodiment. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of the functional configuration of the inspection support server in this embodiment. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of evaluation history information in this embodiment. [Figure 5] This figure shows the standard line corresponding to the standard change information of this embodiment. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of setting a predicted change pattern in response to a change in the evaluation value of type 1 in this embodiment. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of setting a predicted change pattern in response to a change in the evaluation value of type 1 in this embodiment. [Figure 8] This figure shows an example of the change in evaluation value for the second type in this embodiment. [Figure 9] This figure shows an example of setting a predicted change pattern in response to a change in the evaluation value of type 2 in this embodiment. [Figure 10] This figure shows an example of the change in evaluation value for the second type in this embodiment. [Figure 11] This figure shows an example of setting a predicted change pattern in response to a change in the evaluation value of type 2 in this embodiment. [Figure 12] This figure shows an example of the change in evaluation value for the third type in this embodiment. [Figure 13] This figure shows an example of setting a predicted change pattern in response to a change in the evaluation value of the third type in this embodiment. [Figure 14] This figure shows an example of the change in evaluation value for type 4 in this embodiment. [Figure 15] This figure shows an example of setting a predicted change pattern in response to a change in the evaluation value of type 4 in this embodiment. [Figure 16] This figure shows an example of the processing procedure that the inspection support server in this embodiment performs in relation to estimating the recommended inspection timing. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] <Embodiment> [Overall Configuration Example of Inspection System] Figure 1 shows an overall configuration example of the inspection system according to the present embodiment. The inspection system of the present embodiment includes an inspection environment 10. The inspection environment 10 is an environment in which a cognitive function test (cognitive function inspection) can be performed. In the present embodiment, the cognitive function test is, for example, specifically an evaluation of cognitive function. The inspection environment 10 may be, for example, an institution such as a medical environment, a local government, a nursing care facility, or a medical checkup center. The inspection environment 10 may also be, for example, an inspection service provided privately or a private residence where a cognitive function test is performed.

[0012] In the inspection environment 10, an inspection environment terminal 100 is provided. The inspection environment terminal 100 is a terminal that performs a cognitive function test. A microphone 200 is connected to the inspection environment terminal 100. The inspection environment terminal 100 is communicably connected to an inspection support server 300.

[0013] The cognitive function test in the present embodiment may be a test for screening MCI (Mild Cognitive Impairment) such as MoCA-J (Japanese version of Montreal Cognitive Assessment), for example, and the evaluation result may be an evaluation value (score) for cognitive function defined by MoCA-J. A lower evaluation value corresponding to such MoCA-J indicates a greater decline in cognitive function. Note that the cognitive function test in the present embodiment is not limited to MoCA-J, and for example, other neuropsychological test-based MCI screening methods such as MMSE may be employed.

[0014] In conducting a cognitive function test, the person in charge in the test environment 10 asks the test subject to speak predetermined words into the microphone 200, and records (stores) the audio data corresponding to the voice input from the microphone 200 into the test environment terminal 100. The testing environment terminal 100 performs analysis processing on the recorded audio data to conduct a cognitive function test and derives evaluation values ​​as test results. The testing environment terminal 100 associates the evaluation values ​​with the test subject and transmits them to the testing support server 300.

[0015] The inspection support server 300 stores evaluation history information based on evaluation values ​​transmitted to date for each person being inspected. The inspection support server 300 stores evaluation values ​​transmitted from the inspection environment terminal 100 by adding them to the evaluation history information of the corresponding person being inspected.

[0016] The inspection support server 300 estimates the recommended timing for future inspections (recommended inspection timing) based on the evaluation history information it stores. The inspection support server 300 may, for example, estimate the recommended inspection timing in response to a request from the inspection environment terminal 100. Alternatively, the inspection support server 300 may estimate the recommended inspection timing when a predetermined execution timing has been reached.

[0017] The inspection support server 300 may notify the inspection environment terminal 100 of the estimated recommended inspection time. Specifically, the inspection support server 300 may transmit information regarding the estimated recommended inspection time (recommended inspection time information) to the inspection environment terminal 100. The inspection environment terminal 100 may output the transmitted recommended inspection time information by displaying it in a predetermined manner. In the testing environment 10, the person in charge can check the content of the recommended testing timing information displayed on the testing environment terminal 100 and notify the corresponding person to be tested of that content.

[0018] Furthermore, the notification of the recommended testing timing information to the target individual may be sent, for example, via the testing environment terminal 100, or from the testing support server 300 without going through the testing environment terminal 100, to the terminal held by the target individual.

[0019] The testing environment terminal 100 may be, for example, a personal computer, a tablet device, or a smartphone. Furthermore, the functions described above, such as recording the speech of the testing environment terminal 100, conducting cognitive function tests, and sending test results to the testing support server 300 (test-response functions), may be implemented, for example, by an application installed on the testing environment terminal 100. Alternatively, the above-mentioned test-response functions may be implemented, for example, by the testing environment terminal 100 accessing the testing support server 300 to download and execute an application. Furthermore, the cognitive function test function may be provided by the test support server 300. In this case, the test environment terminal 100 may send audio data corresponding to the recorded voice to the test support server 300 and request the test support server 300 to execute the cognitive function test. In the following explanation, we will use as an example the case in which the test environment terminal 100 is configured to have the cognitive function test function. Although Figure 1 shows one inspection environment 10, in the inspection support system of this embodiment, the inspection support server 300 may be connected to inspection environment terminals 100 provided in each of the multiple inspection environments 10.

[0020] [Example of functional configuration for inspection environment terminals] Referring to Figure 2, an example of the functional configuration of the inspection environment terminal 100 will be described. The inspection environment terminal 100 may be configured with hardware such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), and storage devices such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or SSD (Solid State Drive). The inspection environment terminal 100 may also be equipped with a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) as hardware. The functions of the inspection environment terminal 100 shown in the figure are realized by the CPU and GPU provided in the inspection environment terminal 100 executing programs. Specifically, in this embodiment, the various functions shown in Figure 2 may be realized by the CPU and GPU provided in the inspection environment terminal 100 executing application programs corresponding to the inspection functions.

[0021] The inspection environment terminal 100 in the figure comprises a communication unit 101, an input / output interface unit 102, a user interface unit 103, a control unit 104, and a storage unit 105. The communication unit 101 is connected to the inspection support server 300 via the network, enabling communication between them.

[0022] The input / output interface unit 102 is a functional unit that performs input and output of data and signals with various devices. In this embodiment, a microphone 200 is connected to the input / output interface unit 102. The input / output interface unit 102 may output audio data input from the microphone 200 to the control unit 104.

[0023] The user interface unit 103 is a functional unit that corresponds to the user interface. The user interface unit 103 includes operators and input devices provided on the inspection environment terminal 100, as well as input devices connected to the inspection environment terminal 100, and accepts input information corresponding to operations performed on the operators and input devices. The user interface unit 103 also includes a display unit for displaying images. The user interface unit 103 may include a touch panel that allows for image display and operation on the display surface. Furthermore, the user interface unit 103 may include a sound output unit that outputs electronic sounds or voices.

[0024] The control unit 104 performs various controls on the inspection environment terminal 100. The control unit 104 in the figure includes an evaluation unit 141 and an inspection timing notification unit 142. The evaluation unit 141 evaluates the degree of progression of cognitive decline. Specifically, the evaluation unit 141 may evaluate cognitive function using a score (evaluation value) by employing a method of cognitive function assessment using neuropsychological tests such as the MoCA-J. The voice data (audio data) of the subject being tested, captured by the microphone 200, is input to the evaluation unit 141 from the input / output interface unit 102. The evaluation unit 141 analyzes the input audio data to evaluate the cognitive function of the subject being tested. The evaluation unit 141 may, in evaluating the cognitive function of the subject of the test, utilize the estimation results of a pre-trained model that has been trained to estimate cognitive function in response to input voice data. Such a pre-trained model may be constructed, for example, by training a learner with training data in which labels indicating corresponding cognitive functions are associated with voice data. The evaluation unit 141 may transmit the cognitive function evaluation results, associated with the person being tested, to the test support server 300.

[0025] The inspection timing notification unit 142 notifies the user (person in charge) via the user interface unit 103 of the recommended inspection timing estimated by the inspection support server 300 for the person to be inspected. Specifically, the inspection timing notification unit 142 may notify by displaying the recommended inspection timing on a display unit provided in the user interface unit 103.

[0026] The memory unit 105 stores various types of information corresponding to the testing environment terminal 100. For example, the memory unit 105 may store voice data of the test subject recorded during a cognitive function test.

[0027] [Example of functional configuration for the inspection support server] Referring to Figure 3, an example of the functional configuration of the inspection support server 300 will be described. The inspection support server 300 may be configured with hardware such as a CPU, ROM, RAM, and storage devices such as HDDs and SSDs. The inspection support server 300 may also be equipped with a GPU as hardware. The functions of the inspection support server 300 shown in the figure are realized by the CPU and GPU equipped in the inspection support server 300 executing programs.

[0028] The inspection support server 300 in Figure 3 comprises a communication unit 301, a control unit 302, and a storage unit 303. The communication unit 301 is connected to the inspection environment terminal 100 via the network, enabling communication between them.

[0029] The control unit 302 performs various controls on the inspection support server 300. The control unit 302 includes a memory processing unit 321 and an estimation unit 322.

[0030] The memory processing unit 321 stores evaluation information (results of cognitive function tests) transmitted from the testing environment terminal 100 by the evaluation unit 141 in the evaluation history information of the test subject, and stores it in the evaluation history information storage unit 331.

[0031] The estimation unit 322 estimates the recommended examination timing for the subject of examination based on the subject's evaluation history information stored in the evaluation history information storage unit 331. The estimation unit 322 may transmit recommended examination timing information containing details about the recommended examination timing to the examination environment terminal 100 or the subject's terminal in order to notify them of the estimated recommended examination timing.

[0032] The storage unit 303 stores various types of information that the inspection support server 300 is responsible for. The storage unit 303 includes an evaluation history information storage unit 331 and a standard change information storage unit 332.

[0033] The evaluation history information storage unit 331 stores evaluation history information for each person being tested. Figure 4 shows an example of evaluation history information corresponding to one test subject. As shown in Figure 3, the evaluation history information corresponding to one test subject includes the fields for test subject ID, basic test subject information, and personal evaluation history information. The "Test Subject ID" field stores a unique "Test Subject ID" that identifies the corresponding test subject. The "Basic Information of Test Subjects" field stores the basic information of the corresponding test subject. This basic information may include the name, gender, date of birth, address, telephone number, etc., as it represents the basic information of the corresponding test subject.

[0034] The field for personal evaluation history information stores personal evaluation history information. As shown in Figure 3, the personal evaluation history information stores evaluation information corresponding to each test that the corresponding test subject has taken in the testing environment 10. The evaluation information corresponding to one test includes the fields for the test date, age, and evaluation value. In this embodiment, "age" is not limited to years, but may also include months, for example, which is shorter than a year. The "Inspection Date" field stores the date the corresponding inspection was performed. The age field stores information about the age of the person being tested on the date the corresponding test was conducted. The evaluation value field stores the evaluation value for cognitive function obtained as a result of the corresponding test. The evaluation value is an index value that indicates the degree of cognitive function.

[0035] Let's return to the explanation in Figure 3. The standard change information storage unit 332 stores standard change information that the estimation unit 322 uses when estimating the recommended timing of the examination for the person being examined. Standard change information is information that shows how the evaluation values ​​of cognitive function change with the passage of age. Specifically, standard change information is information that associates evaluation values ​​with predetermined age intervals, for example, starting from around 60 years of age or older. In this embodiment, the standard change information storage unit 332 stores two types of standard change information: first standard change information showing the relationship between age and evaluation value corresponding to natural aging, and second standard change information showing the relationship between age and evaluation value corresponding to MCI patients.

[0036] Referring to Figure 5, the standard variation information (first standard variation information, second standard variation information) of this embodiment will be described. In the figure, the first standard line L1 and the second standard line L2 are shown in a two-dimensional coordinate space (cognitive function coordinate space) based on age (horizontal axis) and cognitive function evaluation values ​​(vertical axis). The first standard line L1 is a curve formed by plotting the coordinates (evaluation value coordinates) of age and evaluation value shown in the first standard information onto the cognitive function coordinate space. In other words, the first standard line L1 is an expansion of the first standard information as a curve (natural aging curve) showing the change in evaluation value according to the passage of age. The second standard line L2 is a curve formed by plotting the evaluation value coordinates, which are age-related and evaluation values ​​as shown in the second standard information, onto the cognitive function coordinate space. In other words, the second standard line L2 is an expansion of the second standard information as a curve (MCI-type curve) showing the change in evaluation values ​​according to the passage of age.

[0037] Furthermore, the vertical axis of the cognitive function coordinate space in the same figure shows evaluation values ​​p1 and p2. In the cognitive function coordinate space of the same figure, the region where the evaluation value is greater than evaluation value p1 is the region where no treatment is required. The region where no treatment is required is the region of evaluation values ​​in which treatment related to cognitive function is deemed unnecessary. The range of evaluation values ​​from below evaluation value p1 to above evaluation value p2 is the treatable range. The treatable range is the range of evaluation values ​​in which cognitive function can be improved through treatment. The area with an evaluation score of p2 or lower is considered an untreated area. The untreated area is a range of evaluation scores where improvement in cognitive function through treatment is deemed impossible.

[0038] [Examples of methods for estimating the recommended timing of examinations] Referring to Figures 6 to 15, an example of the estimation method for the recommended inspection timing by the estimation unit 322 of the inspection support server 300 in this embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, the estimation unit 322, in estimating the recommended testing period for one subject, classifies the pattern of changes in evaluation values ​​according to age (change in evaluation value) based on the evaluation information of the corresponding subject stored in the evaluation history information storage unit 331 into one of four types, from the first to the fourth type.

[0039] Figures 6 and 7 show an example of the change in evaluation value for the first type. First, Figure 6 shows a cognitive function coordinate space with the first standard line L1 and the second standard line L2 positioned, similar to Figure 5. Then, Figure 6 shows six evaluation value coordinates cd plotted in correspondence to each evaluation piece of information included in the evaluation history information of the test subject. The six evaluation value coordinates cd shown in this figure show the change in evaluation values ​​according to the progression of age, approximating the first standard line L1. Furthermore, in Figure 7, the six evaluation value coordinates cd plotted in the cognitive function coordinate space show changes in evaluation values ​​according to age, approximating the second standard line L2.

[0040] Thus, the first type is a state in which the pattern of change in evaluation values ​​according to the age progression of the evaluation value coordinates based on evaluation history information approximates the standard line (first standard line L1 or second standard line L2) with a certain degree of approximation.

[0041] If the estimation unit 322 determines that the change pattern of evaluation values ​​based on the evaluation history information corresponds to the first type, it sets the standard line that was deemed to be an approximation as the predicted change in evaluation values ​​(predicted change pattern) according to the future aging progression of the person being tested. In the example of Figure 6, the estimation unit 322 sets the first standard line L1, which is a natural aging type curve, as the predicted change pattern, and in the example of Figure 7, it sets the second standard line L2, which is an MCI type curve, as the predicted change pattern.

[0042] The estimation unit 322 refers to the set predicted change pattern to estimate the recommended timing for when the person to be tested should undergo testing from the present onward. For example, the estimation unit 322 may estimate that the recommended testing time is the next regular examination if the evaluation value at the subject's age when the next periodic examination is to be conducted, under the set predicted change pattern, remains above the evaluation value p1 (an example of a threshold). On the other hand, for example, the last evaluation value coordinate cd used to estimate the recommended timing of the examination in this case is evaluation value p1 or higher, but the evaluation value at the age of the subject when the next regular examination is conducted, under the set predicted change pattern, may be lower than evaluation value p1. In the treatable area where the evaluation value is p2 or higher, treatment for recovery or maintenance of cognitive function is possible, whereas below evaluation value p2 it is considered an untreatable area, where improvement of cognitive function is not possible and only the decline of cognitive function can be slowed. For this reason, it is important to grasp the state of cognitive decline before the examination result falls below evaluation value p2. Therefore, in this case, the estimation unit 322 may estimate the next recommended timing of the examination to be a period before the next regular examination, while the evaluation value remains p1 or higher. Furthermore, if the change in the evaluation value coordinate cd used to estimate the recommended examination timing falls within the range from less than evaluation value p1 to greater than evaluation value p2 (an example of a threshold), then the evaluation value at the subject's age during the next periodic examination, under the set predicted change pattern, is less than evaluation value p2. In this case, the estimation unit 322 may estimate the next recommended examination timing as a period that is, for example, before the next periodic examination and where the evaluation value remains above p2.

[0043] Next, we will explain the second type with reference to Figures 8 to 11. Figure 8 shows the plotting of the evaluation value coordinate cd, based on the six evaluation values ​​used to estimate the recommended timing of the tests, against the cognitive function coordinate space. The age-dependent change pattern of the evaluation value coordinate cd shown in Figure 8 does not approximate either the first standard line L1 or the second standard line L2. However, as shown in Figure 9, the change pattern of the evaluation value coordinate cd in this case approximates a shifted second standard line L2a, which is obtained by shifting the second standard line L2 vertically to lower the evaluation values.

[0044] Furthermore, the age-dependent change pattern of the evaluation value coordinate cd shown in Figure 10 does not approximate either the first standard line L1 or the second standard line L2. However, as shown in Figure 11, the change pattern of the evaluation value coordinate cd in this case approximates the shifted first standard line L1a, which is obtained by shifting the first standard line L1 in the vertical direction to increase the evaluation value.

[0045] The second type, as shown in Figures 8 to 11, corresponds to the change pattern of the evaluation value coordinate cd that approximates a standard line shifted in the vertical axis direction. In Figure 9, the shifted second standard line L2a is shifted downwards so that the evaluation value is smaller for the same age than the second standard line L2. However, a change pattern in the evaluation value coordinate cd that approximates a shifted second standard line that is shifted upwards so that the evaluation value is larger may also be considered to fall under the second type. Similarly, contrary to the example in Figure 11, a change pattern in the evaluation value coordinate cd that approximates a shifted first standard line that is shifted downwards so that the evaluation value is smaller may also be considered to fall under the second type.

[0046] If the estimation unit 322 determines that the change pattern of the evaluation value coordinate cd is of type 2, it sets a shift standard line that approximates the change pattern of the evaluation value coordinate cd as the predicted change pattern. Specifically, if the estimation unit 322 determines that the change pattern of the evaluation value coordinate cd is of the second type, which approximates the second shift standard line, as in the examples in Figures 8 and 9, it sets the second shift standard line as the predicted change pattern. Furthermore, if the estimation unit 322 determines that the change pattern of the evaluation value coordinate cd is of the second type, which approximates the first shift standard line, as in the examples in Figures 10 and 11, it sets the first shift standard line as the predicted change pattern. The estimation unit 322 estimates the recommended timing for the next examination based on the age and evaluation value from the present onward indicated by the set predicted change pattern.

[0047] Next, we will explain the third type with reference to Figures 12 and 13. Figure 12 shows the plotting of the evaluation value coordinate cd, based on the six evaluation values ​​used to estimate the recommended timing of the tests, against the cognitive function coordinate space. The change pattern of the evaluation value coordinate cd shown in Figure 12 is not linear, approximating the standard line as in Figures 6 to 11, but rather shows variability in the evaluation values. This state, where the change pattern of the evaluation value coordinate cd is not linear but shows variability, corresponds to the third type.

[0048] If the estimation unit 322 determines that the change pattern of the evaluation value coordinate cd is of type 3, it sets the standard line obtained based on the latest evaluation value obtained in the last inspection among the evaluation values ​​plotted as the evaluation value coordinate cd as the predicted change pattern.

[0049] Figure 13 shows an example of setting a prediction change pattern under the third type, corresponding to the example of the evaluation value coordinate cd in Figure 12. In Figure 13, the same evaluation value coordinate cd as in Figure 12 is shown. In this case, if the evaluation value shown by the latest evaluation value coordinate cd-r among the evaluation value coordinate cd shown in Figure 13 corresponds to either the first standard line or the second standard line, the estimation unit 322 may set the matching first standard line or second standard line as the predicted change pattern.

[0050] On the other hand, as illustrated in Figure 13, there are cases where the evaluation value indicated by the evaluation value coordinate cd-r does not correspond to either the first standard line or the second standard line. In this case, the estimation unit 322 selects the standard line between the first standard line L1 and the second standard line L2 that is closer to the evaluation value at the same age as the evaluation value coordinate cd-r as the standard line to be shifted. Then, the estimation unit 322 generates a shifted standard line by shifting the standard line selected as the shift target so that the evaluation value coordinate cd-r corresponds to it. Specifically, in the example shown in Figure 13, the estimation unit 322 selects the first standard line L1 as the target for shifting. Then, in this case, the estimation unit 322 generates a shifted first standard line L1a by shifting the selected first standard line L1 in the vertical axis direction so that the evaluation value coordinate cd-r is included in it. The estimation unit 322 uses the shift standard line generated as described above to estimate the next recommended inspection timing.

[0051] Cognitive function can vary depending on the subject's physical condition at the time of testing. To address such variations, it is necessary to improve accuracy by accumulating data on test results. However, cognitive function can also change significantly due to illness or injury in the subject. In such situations, variations will occur in the assessed values ​​of cognitive function. In this embodiment, by enabling the estimation of changes in cognitive function according to the third type described above, it becomes possible to accurately recommend continued testing, issue warnings, and encourage consultation with a specialist, even if there are variations in the assessed values ​​of cognitive function.

[0052] Next, we will explain the fourth type with reference to Figures 14 and 15. Figure 14 shows the plotting of the evaluation value coordinate cd, based on the six evaluation values ​​used to estimate the recommended timing of the tests, against the cognitive function coordinate space. The change pattern of the evaluation value coordinate cd shown in Figure 14 does not approximate either the first standard line L1 or the second standard line L2, and shows a considerably steeper downward trend than the downward trend of evaluation values ​​shown by the second standard line L2. This change pattern of the evaluation value coordinate cd corresponds to type 4.

[0053] If the estimation unit 322 determines that the change pattern of the evaluation value coordinate cd is of type 4, it sets a predicted change pattern that approximates the change pattern of the evaluation value coordinate cd, without setting a predicted change pattern based on the standard line. Specifically, the estimation unit 322 generates a predicted change pattern as shown in Figure 15, corresponding to the fourth type of change pattern of the evaluation value coordinate cd in Figure 14. In other words, the estimation unit 322 generates a straight line L3 as an individual change pattern that approximates the change pattern of the evaluation value coordinate cd. For generating the straight line L3, calculations using linear regression, such as the least squares method, may be performed. The estimation unit 322 sets the generated individual change pattern as the predicted change pattern and estimates the next recommended inspection timing. Furthermore, the individual change patterns generated in response to the fourth type may be curves obtained through methods such as polynomial regression, but using straight lines reduces the computational load while maintaining a certain level of reliability. Here, if the change pattern of the evaluation value coordinate cd is of type 4, it can be said that cognitive function is declining to a considerable degree. Therefore, if the estimation unit 322 determines that the change pattern of the evaluation value coordinate cd is of type 4, it may determine that the recommended timing for testing is immediate. "Immediate" here does not specify a particular time, for example, but may mean that testing should be done as soon as possible. In this case, the estimation unit 322 may also recommend that the person being tested undergo more specialized examinations by a specialist or family doctor, rather than routine screening tests. Furthermore, in situations where cognitive decline is progressing at a considerable rate, there is a suspicion that the person being tested may have a disease other than MCI or dementia. If the examination under this embodiment determines that the change pattern of the evaluation value coordinate cd corresponds to type 4, it becomes possible to recommend early consultation for diseases other than MCI or dementia.

[0054] [Example of processing procedure] Referring to the flowchart in Figure 16, an example of the processing procedure performed by the inspection support server 300 in relation to estimating the recommended inspection timing will be described. Step S100: In the inspection support server 300, the estimation unit 322 receives an estimation trigger that estimates the recommended inspection time for a specific person to be inspected. The estimation trigger may be, for example, receiving a request to estimate the recommended inspection time from the inspection environment terminal 100. The person to be inspected includes a person to be inspected ID that indicates the corresponding person to be inspected.

[0055] Step S102: The estimation unit 322 obtains personal evaluation history information associated with the subject ID included in the received recommended examination timing estimation request from the evaluation history information storage unit 331.

[0056] Step S104: The estimation unit 322 determines (type determination) which of the four types, from type 1 to type 4, the pattern of change in evaluation values ​​for the subject of the test, as shown by the personal evaluation history information obtained in step S102, corresponds to. The estimation unit 322 may, for example, use machine learning to cluster the change pattern of evaluation values ​​shown in the personal evaluation history information to determine which of the first to fourth types it corresponds to.

[0057] Step S106: The estimation unit 322 determines which of the first to fourth types was obtained as a result of the type determination in step S104.

[0058] Step S108: If the result of the type determination in step S106 is determined to be type 1, the estimation unit 322 sets the standard line corresponding to the change pattern of the evaluation value of the person being tested as the predicted change pattern.

[0059] Step S110: If the result of the type determination in step S106 is determined to be type 2, the estimation unit 322 generates a shift standard line corresponding to the change pattern of the evaluation value of the person being tested.

[0060] Step S112: The estimation unit 322 sets the shift standard line generated in step S112 as the predicted change pattern.

[0061] Step S114: If the result of the type determination in step S106 is determined to be the third type, the estimation unit 322 determines whether the latest evaluation value among the evaluation values ​​of the person being tested falls on either the first standard line or the second standard line.

[0062] Step S116: If it is determined in step S114 that the latest evaluation value of the person being tested corresponds to either the first standard line or the second standard line, the estimation unit 322 sets the standard line that was determined to correspond as the predicted change pattern.

[0063] Step S118: If it is determined in step S114 that the subject's latest evaluation value does not correspond to either the first or second standard line, the estimation unit 322 selects the standard line that is closer to the subject's latest evaluation value from the first and second standard lines as the standard line to be shifted. The estimation unit 322 generates a shifted standard line by shifting the standard line to be shifted to match the subject's latest evaluation value.

[0064] Step S120: The estimation unit sets the shift standard line generated in step S118 as the predicted change pattern.

[0065] Step S122: If the result of the type determination in step S106 is determined to be type 4, the estimation unit 322 generates an individual change pattern based on the evaluation value of the person being tested.

[0066] Step S124: The estimation unit 322 sets the individual change patterns generated in step S122 as predicted change patterns.

[0067] Step S126: The estimation unit 322 determines the recommended testing period based on the predicted change pattern set in Step S108, S112, S120, or S124. The recommended testing period may be indicated as, for example, a predetermined number of months after the present, or it may be indicated as a specific year, month, and day. Furthermore, if a predicted change pattern has been set in Step S124 corresponding to the fourth type, and the system has reached Step S126, the estimation unit 322 may determine that the recommended testing period is immediate, as described above.

[0068] Step S128: The estimation unit 322 transmits recommended inspection timing information, which indicates the recommended inspection timing estimated in step S126, to the inspection environment terminal 100. The inspection environment terminal 100 outputs the transmitted recommended inspection timing information by displaying it or by other means.

[0069] According to the configuration of this embodiment described above, it is possible to derive a predicted change pattern from the change patterns of evaluation values, which are the results of previous cognitive function tests, and to estimate the recommended timing for testing based on the predicted change pattern. In other words, with this embodiment, it is possible to notify the test subject of when they should take the next test, according to the predicted rate of future cognitive decline. This makes it possible, for example, for test subjects whose cognitive decline is progressing rapidly to take tests appropriately without waiting for regular tests.

[0070] Furthermore, the derivation of the predicted change pattern in this embodiment indicates the future changes in the cognitive function of the person being tested. In other words, the testing support system of this embodiment predicts the future changes in the cognitive function of the person being tested by deriving the predicted change pattern. Therefore, in this embodiment, for example, the predicted change pattern derived by the examination support server 300 may be displayed as a line graph or the like on the examination environment terminal 100, thereby presenting a predicted result regarding the degree of progression of cognitive decline as an indication of future changes in the cognitive function of the person being examined.

[0071] In the above embodiment, the cognitive function test is based on the analysis of the subject's speech. However, the cognitive function test used in this embodiment may be something other than a test based on the analysis of the subject's speech. Examples of cognitive function tests that can be used in this embodiment include tests based on the analysis of the subject's answers to predetermined questions, or tests based on the analysis of predetermined movements performed by the subject.

[0072] Furthermore, the functions of the aforementioned inspection environment terminal 100 and inspection support server 300 may be realized by recording the program to realize these functions on a computer-readable recording medium, loading the program recorded on this recording medium into a computer system, and executing it to perform the processing of the aforementioned inspection environment terminal 100 and inspection support server 300. Here, "loading the program recorded on the recording medium into a computer system and executing it" includes installing the program into the computer system. Here, "computer system" includes hardware such as the OS and peripheral devices. Also, "computer system" may include multiple computer devices connected via a network including communication lines such as the Internet, WAN, LAN, and dedicated lines. Also, "computer-readable recording medium" refers to portable media such as flexible disks, magneto-optical disks, ROMs, CD-ROMs, and storage devices such as hard disks built into the computer system. Thus, the recording medium storing the program may also be a non-transient recording medium such as a CD-ROM. Also, the recording medium includes internal or external recording media that can be accessed from the distribution server for distributing the program. The program code stored on the distribution server's recording medium may be different from the program code in a format executable by the terminal device. In other words, the format in which the program is stored on the distribution server is irrelevant, as long as it can be downloaded from the distribution server and installed in a form that can be executed on the terminal device. Furthermore, the program may be divided into multiple parts, each downloaded at a different time and then combined on the terminal device, and each divided program may be distributed by a different distribution server. In addition, "computer-readable recording medium" includes volatile memory (RAM) within computer systems that act as servers or clients when a program is transmitted over a network, which retains the program for a certain period of time. Moreover, the above program may be intended to implement only a part of the functions described above.Furthermore, the above-mentioned functions may be implemented in combination with programs already recorded in the computer system, such as so-called differential files (differential programs).

[0073] <Note> (1) One aspect of the above-described embodiment is an examination system that includes an evaluation unit (141) which derives evaluation information (e.g., evaluation value / score) indicating the degree of cognitive function based on the voice of a test subject who utters predetermined words in advance during a cognitive function test conducted at predetermined intervals; a memory processing unit (321) which stores the evaluation information derived by the evaluation unit for each cognitive function test in a memory unit (e.g., evaluation history information memory unit 331) in association with the test subject; and an estimation unit (322) which estimates the future changes in the test subject's cognitive function based on the evaluation information stored in the memory unit.

[0074] (2) One aspect of this embodiment is the examination system described in (1), wherein the estimation unit identifies the degree of cognitive function to which the evaluation information stored in the memory unit corresponds in the standard change information showing the standard degree of cognitive function change with respect to age, and performs a first estimation (for example, an estimation corresponding to the first type of evaluation value change) to estimate the future change in cognitive function of the subject based on the standard change information for subsequent ages to which the identified degree of cognitive function corresponds.

[0075] (3) One aspect of this embodiment is the examination system described in (2), wherein a plurality of standard change information sets, each representing a different change in the degree of cognitive function relative to age, are defined, and the estimation unit may use the standard change information set that best approximates the change in the degree of cognitive function stored in the memory unit for the first estimation.

[0076] (4) One aspect of this embodiment is the testing system described in (2) or (3), wherein the estimation unit may, if the change in the degree of cognitive function corresponding to the age of the test subject indicated by the standard change information deviates by a certain amount or more from the change in the degree of cognitive function indicated by the evaluation information stored in the memory unit (for example, corresponding to the change in evaluation value of type 2), shift the change in the degree of cognitive function with respect to age in the standard change information test to match the change in the degree of cognitive function indicated by the evaluation information, and use the shifted standard change information for the first estimation.

[0077] (5) One aspect of this embodiment is the testing system described in any one of (2) to (4), wherein the estimation unit may perform the first estimation using the latest evaluation information among the evaluation information stored in the memory unit if the evaluation results of multiple cognitive functions from the present to a predetermined past period, as indicated by the evaluation information stored in the memory unit, vary to a certain degree or more (for example, corresponding to a change in the evaluation value of the third type).

[0078] (6) One aspect of this embodiment is the examination system described in any one of (2) to (5), wherein the estimation unit may use the evaluation information of the subject stored in the memory unit to generate individual change information showing the degree of change in cognitive function with respect to age, based on the evaluation information of the subject stored in the memory unit, in which it has determined that the pattern of change in cognitive function up to the present, as shown by the evaluation information of the subject stored in the memory unit, has a tendency to deviate from the pattern of change in cognitive function shown by the standard change information (for example, corresponding to the fourth type of evaluation value change), and perform a second estimation to estimate the future change in cognitive function of the subject based on the generated individual change information.

[0079] (7) One aspect of this embodiment is the examination system described in (1) to (6), wherein the estimation unit may determine a recommended examination time in which it is appropriate for the subject to undergo cognitive function tests in the future, based on the estimation result of the subject's future changes in cognitive function.

[0080] (8) One aspect of this embodiment is the examination system described in (7), wherein the estimation unit may determine the recommended examination timing based on the result of comparing a value indicating the degree of cognitive function according to the passage of age, which is shown as an estimation result of the future changes in the degree of cognitive function of the person being examined, with a predetermined threshold.

[0081] (9) One aspect of this embodiment is the examination system described in (7) or (8), wherein the estimation unit may determine that the change in cognitive function up to the present, as indicated by the evaluation information of the subject of the examination stored in the memory unit, has deviated by a certain amount or more from the pattern of change in cognitive function indicated by the standard change information that shows the change in the standard degree of cognitive function for age (for example, corresponding to the fourth type of evaluation value change), and the recommended examination time is immediate.

[0082] (10) One aspect of this embodiment is an examination method in an examination system, comprising: an evaluation step in which an evaluation unit derives evaluation information indicating the degree of cognitive function based on the voice of a subject uttering predetermined words in advance during a cognitive function examination performed at predetermined intervals; a memory processing step in which a memory processing unit stores the evaluation information derived in the evaluation step in a memory unit in association with the subject for each cognitive function examination; and an estimation step in which an estimation unit estimates the future changes in the subject's cognitive function based on the evaluation information stored in the memory unit.

[0083] (11) One aspect of this embodiment is a program that causes the computer in the testing system to function as an evaluation unit that derives evaluation information indicating the degree of cognitive function based on the voice of a test subject uttering predetermined words in advance in a cognitive function test that is performed at predetermined intervals; a memory processing unit that stores the evaluation information derived by the evaluation unit for each cognitive function test in a memory unit in association with the test subject; and an estimation unit that estimates the future changes in the test subject's cognitive function based on the evaluation information stored in the memory unit. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0084] 10 Inspection environment, 100 Inspection environment terminal, 101 Communication unit, 102 Input / Output interface unit, 103 User interface unit, 104 Control unit, 105 Storage unit, 141 Evaluation unit, 142 Inspection timing notification unit, 200 Microphone, 300 Inspection support server, 301 Communication unit, 302 Control unit, 303 Storage unit, 321 Storage processing unit, 322 Estimation unit, 331 Evaluation history information storage unit, 332 Standard change information storage unit

Claims

1. In cognitive function tests conducted at predetermined intervals, an evaluation unit derives evaluation information indicating the degree of cognitive function based on the voice of the test subject uttering predetermined words and phrases, A memory processing unit that stores evaluation information derived by the evaluation unit for each cognitive function test in a memory unit, associating it with the test subject, An estimation unit that estimates the future changes in the cognitive function of the subject of the test based on the evaluation information stored in the memory unit. An inspection system equipped with the following features.

2. The estimation unit, In the standard change information showing the standard degree of cognitive function changes with age, the evaluation information stored in the memory unit identifies the corresponding degree of cognitive function, and a first estimation is performed to estimate the future changes in the subject's cognitive function based on the standard change information for subsequent ages corresponding to the identified degree of cognitive function. The inspection system according to claim 1.

3. Multiple standard change data sets, each representing a different change in the degree of cognitive function relative to age, have been established. The estimation unit, The first estimation uses standard change information that, among multiple standard change information, best approximates the change in the degree of cognitive function stored in the memory unit. The inspection system according to claim 2.

4. The estimation unit, If the changes in the degree of cognitive function corresponding to the age of the test subject, as shown by the standard change information, deviate by a certain amount or more from the changes in the degree of cognitive function shown by the evaluation information stored in the memory unit, the changes in the degree of cognitive function corresponding to age in the standard change information test are shifted to match the changes in the degree of cognitive function shown by the evaluation information, and the shifted standard change information is used for the first estimation. The inspection system according to claim 2 or 3.

5. The estimation unit, If the evaluation results of multiple cognitive functions from the present to a predetermined past period, as indicated by the evaluation information stored in the memory unit, show a certain degree of variation, the first estimation is performed using the most recent evaluation information among the evaluation information stored in the memory unit. The inspection system according to claim 2 or 3.

6. The estimation unit, If it is determined that the pattern of change in cognitive function up to the present, as shown by the evaluation information of the subject stored in the memory unit, deviates from the pattern of change in cognitive function shown by the standard change information, then, using the evaluation information of the subject stored in the memory unit, individual change information showing the degree of change in cognitive function relative to age is generated, and a second estimation is performed to estimate the future change in cognitive function of the subject based on the generated individual change information. The inspection system according to claim 2 or 3.

7. The estimation unit, Based on the estimated changes in the subject's future cognitive function, the appropriate timing for the subject to undergo cognitive function tests in the future is determined. The inspection system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

8. The estimation unit, Based on a comparison between a value indicating the degree of cognitive function according to age, which is shown as an estimate of the future changes in the degree of cognitive function of the subject of the examination, and a predetermined threshold, the recommended timing for the examination is determined. The inspection system according to claim 7.

9. If the estimation unit determines that the changes in the subject's cognitive function up to the present, as indicated by the evaluation information of the subject stored in the memory unit, deviate by a certain amount or more from the cognitive function change pattern indicated by the standard change information showing the standard degree of cognitive function change for age, then it determines that the recommended testing period is immediate. The inspection system according to claim 7.

10. A testing method in a testing system, The evaluation department performs an evaluation step in which, in cognitive function tests conducted at predetermined intervals, it derives evaluation information indicating the degree of cognitive function based on the voice of the test subject uttering predetermined words and phrases, and A memory processing step in which the memory processing unit stores evaluation information derived by the evaluation step for each cognitive function test in the memory unit in association with the test subject, The estimation unit performs an estimation step in which it estimates the future changes in the cognitive function of the subject of the test based on the evaluation information stored in the memory unit. Testing methods including those mentioned.

11. Computers in inspection systems In cognitive function tests conducted at predetermined intervals, an evaluation unit derives evaluation information indicating the degree of cognitive function based on the voice of the test subject uttering predetermined words and phrases. A memory processing unit stores evaluation information derived by the evaluation unit for each cognitive function test in a memory unit, associating it with the test subject. Estimation unit estimates the future changes in the cognitive function of the subject based on the evaluation information stored in the memory unit. A program designed to function as such.

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