Authors: Sanne Franzen, Rune Nielsen, Esther van den Berg, Janne M. Papma
Published: 2020-12-07
DOI: 10.1002/alz.044471
Source: Full article
AbstractBackgroundPerformance on traditional neuropsychological tests is influenced by factors such as culture, language, (quality of) education, and literacy. As Europe is becoming increasingly diverse, neuropsychological assessment practices need to be adapted to these diverse populations. The aims of this study were to examine the current state of cross‐cultural neuropsychological assessment in Europe and to provide recommendations for researchers and policy makers on this topic.MethodTwelve experts from nine European countries participated in a Delphi study involving two survey rounds and a group discussion stage. The surveys consisted of open‐ended questions and importance ratings (score out of 10).ResultAcross Europe, several cross‐cultural (adaptations of) neuropsychological tests are available, as well as a limited number of initiatives for training. The main priorities that were identified were the development of tests (median importance rating 10, Q1‐Q3: 9‐10) and norms (median importance rating 9, Q1‐Q3: 8‐10), as well as training, awareness and knowledge among European neuropsychologists (median importance rating 9, Q1‐Q3: 8‐10). According to the Delphi panelists, future focus should be on tests of social cognition (median 9, Q1‐Q3: 8‐10) and language (median 9, Q1‐Q3: 7‐10), closely followed by other domains, such as executive functioning (median 8, Q1‐Q3: 8‐10).ConclusionEuropean experts agree that developing tests should be a priority, in particular tests of social cognition and language. European guidelines should be established for working with interpreters in a neuropsychological assessment. Furthermore, training needs to be improved across Europe. A list of recommendations was generated describing essential skills and knowledge necessary for cross‐cultural neuropsychological assessment.