Memory test via mobile phone
New approaches for the early detection of dementia
Memory tests play a central role in the diagnosis and research of Alzheimer’s disease. Depending on how they are devised, conventional tests need paper and pencil or a computer. They also require professional supervision and sometimes supervision from a doctor. All in all, it's a rather laborious procedure. It would be easier if such tests could be taken at home at one's convenience. The Magdeburg-based start-up neotiv has developed a special app for this purpose, based on many years of research by DZNE. The app runs on smartphones and tablets, is used in dementia studies and some medical practices are now using it in pilot projects to assess memory problems. In these cases, the app is prescribed. And its possibilities are not yet exhausted. Dr. David Berron, a scientist at the DZNE and one of the brains behind the app, is investigating – with the support of 150,000 euros from the Alzheimer Research Initiative (AFI) – how well this digital tool can detect changes in memory performance over a period of one year.
Instrument for early detection
Compared to conventional memory tests, these mobile assessments have several advantages: “The tests can be completed and repeated conveniently at home. Fluctuations in memory performance depending on daily form are therefore less significant” says Berron. He emphasises that the app is not designed as a stand-alone self-test that provides immediate feedback: rather, it is intended as part of a comprehensive diagnostic process. The test results are compiled in a report that serves as the basis for further diagnosis and treatment. “It’s similar to a long-term ECG. You take the corresponding measuring device home with you, and the data is then evaluated at the doctor’s office. It’s similar with this app.”
Early detection is crucial for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease – and the app opens up new possibilities because it is easy to use and accessible. “Novel drugs are coming to the market that can slow down the development of Alzheimer’s disease – provided that therapy begins at an early stage. That’s why early detection is so important,” says Prof. Emrah Düzel, a dementia researcher at DZNE’s Magdeburg site.
Positive field test
The app has been well received in practice, as shown by a study conducted by DZNE healthcare researchers. A team led by Prof. René Thyrian examined the use of the app in collaboration with several GP practices in the Magdeburg area. A total of 45 patients with suspected memory problems used the app over a period of 12 weeks. “Most patients and doctors rated the app as positive and helpful for the diagnostic process,” he says. “These results suggest that such digital tools can have their place in routine healthcare. However, further studies are needed to determine how to promote the use of such methods in routine healthcare, including in other settings.”
Transparency note
Emrah Düzel, a dementia researcher at DZNE, is also co-founder and Chief Medical Officer of “neotiv”.
Original publication
Acceptance of unsupervised app-based cognitive assessment in outpatient care: An implementation study.
Iris Blotenberg et al.
JMIR Formative Research (2025).
DOI: https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e62706/authors
February 2025