Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Systematic Review
Abstract: Background/Objectives: Cognitive impairment is a major concern in aging populations. Early detection through validated neuropsychological tests is essential for dementia risk stratification and preventive interventions. This scoping review (PRISMA-ScR, 2013–2023, registration protocol: 10.17605/OSF.IO/8NHJF) evaluated cognitive testing trends in aging research and identified the most frequently used neuropsychological screening tests in Spanish populations. Methods: Searches in PubMed and Web of Science (March 2024) yielded 730 records; 156 were reviewed in full, and 15 met inclusion criteria for Spanish adults ≥65 years. Results: The Mini-Mental State Examination was the most-used test, followed by verbal fluency and Trail Making Test. No test covered all six DSM-5 cognitive domains, and social cognition was never assessed in any of the studies. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment was underused despite its superior sensitivity. Conclusions: Findings support developing a tailored, multidomain battery combining global and domain-specific tests. Social cognition assessments should be included to ensure a complete cognitive domain coverage.
Source: Geriatrics
Institution: University of Castilla-La Mancha
Language: English
Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,172
OpenAlex ID: W7153252161