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Abstract Objective Research demonstrates adequate consistency between in-person and tele-np assessments with the latter typically omitting visually based measures and limiting capture of process-oriented scores. This study presents a novel tele-np protocol designed at the Framingham Heart Study (FHS) allowing for capture of visual and Boston Process Approach (BPA) data. Methods Beginning in 2021, FHS participants completed a tele-np protocol via HIPAA-compliant Zoom that includes tests similar to those administered in-person assessing all cognitive domains including visual memory and visuospatial functioning. Records forms, digital pen for BPA capture, and a label for return of materials, were mailed to participants. Regression models were used to compare in-person and tele-np results. Results The tele-np protocol consisting of 15 tests was administered to 169 participants across 30 states and three countries. Participants were 71.8 years on average (SD = 9.98), well-educated (84.6% ≥ college-educated), Caucasian (86.4%), and 53% male. Mean completion time of the tele-np protocol is 77.7 minutes (SD = 13.2). 76% of participants were deemed to be cognitively intact and 24% cognitively impaired based on their tele-np and previous in-person data. With the exception of a test of processing speed (β = −5.24 −7.58,-2.89, p 0.001), raw scores across most tests did not significantly differ based on mode of administration (tele-np vs. in-person) after adjusting for age, sex, education, and years between in-person and tele-np evaluations. Conclusion Preliminary findings indicate that the current tele-np protocol yields reliable results. Tele-np offers a cost-effective approach to improve accessibility and retention of participants, especially those out of state who may have otherwise been excluded from data collection.
Gurnani et al. (Thu,) studied this question.