Effects of Combining Functional and Cognitive Impairment Scales on Prediction
of Preclinical Alzheimer's Disease 


   Note: An Official Proposal has not been Submitted to NACC.


   Lead Investigator:    Elena Kloer
   Institution      :    Pacific University School of Graduate Psychology
   E-Mail           :    tess4259@pacificu.edu
   Proposal ID      :    1693



   Proposal Description:
   In order to investigate the utility of combined cognitive and functional measures in detection of preclinical Alzheimer's disease, the objective of the proposed research is to determine whether incorporating functional as well as cognitive assessment scores into predictive models will improve the ability to predict and differentially diagnose Alzheimer's cases over and above models derived from cognitive predictors alone. Specific aims of the proposed research will include determining whether significant group differences exist in baseline FAQ scores between clinical groups (including cognitively normal, MCI, and impaired not MCI individuals) and whether including both functional and cognitive assessment scores (e.g., FAQ and MoCA scores) in predictive models will improve prediction of diagnostic status at follow-up over and above prediction models based on cognitive scores alone. Findings from the proposed research will be expected to contribute to the body of literature on the use of functional metrics to detect preclinical AD as well as to help elucidate the clinical utility of combined cognitive and functional predictors in early prediction and diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. Results will be discussed in terms of implications for the early diagnosis, screening, prediction, and assessment of preclinical Alzheimer's disease and MCI.