Multi-site video-based assessment with the NACC UDS-Version 3 battery: Design and participant experience in the V-Cog study

INTRODUCTION: Video-based cognitive testing is becoming more common. The ‘VCog’ study aims to evaluate the validity, feasibility, and acceptability of a standardized video-administered cognitive research battery. METHODS: Twelve Alzheimer's Disease Research Centers (ADRCs) administered, in randomized order, an in-person and video-adapted Uniform Data Set Version 3 (UDSv3) cognitive assessment battery to participants with normal cognition (n = 156), mild cognitive impairment (MCI; n = 230), and dementia (n = 77). Acceptability of technology and participant experience completing video testing was assessed. RESULTS: Of 463 participants (mean age 75.1 years, 52.5% female, and 25.5% non-White individuals), most rated video testing as easy (90.0%), convenient (95.3%) and would accept it in future visits (75.5%). Greater cognitive impairment was associated with more difficulty with setup and use of video. Staff rated most administrations as producing valid data (94.8%). DISCUSSION: Video-based research cognitive testing with an adapted UDSv3 battery is feasible and well-accepted among older adults with and without cognitive impairment. Highlights: The COVID-19 pandemic increased the need for video-administered cognitive assessments in Alzheimer's Disease Research Centers (ADRCs). Feasibility, acceptability, and validity of video cognitive testing were evaluated. Participant experience and examiner evaluations of data validity were positive. Video assessment may extend the ADRCs reach to otherwise unreachable participants.