The feasibility of using eye-tracking technology for cognitive screening in Down syndrome with dementia: A cross-sectional case series.

INTRODUCTION

Adults with Down syndrome (DS) are at a high risk for dementia, yet cognitive screening is complicated by premorbid intellectual disabilities. This study evaluated the feasibility of using eye-tracking technology as a screening tool.

METHODS

Ten adults with DS (five with dementia, five without) completed cognitive tasks while their eye movements were recorded. Feasibility was assessed through calibration success, gaze sample quality, and task completion.

RESULTS

Calibration was successful for most subjects (except one individual with dementia required five attempts and had low gaze sampling). Most subjects achieved 50%-88% gaze sample rates and completed testing with staff support. Subjects with dementia showed longer times to first fixation but similar fixation durations compared to those without dementia. Cognitive scores were lower in the dementia group but not significantly correlated with gaze quality.

DISCUSSION

Eye tracking may be a feasible method for cognitive screening in DS, but further validation is needed.

HIGHLIGHTS

Eye-tracking may be a potential non-verbal method for cognitive screening in individuals with DS. Support from staff for engaging the subjects could be essential for maintaining attention on the computer screen.