Scoring of the AD8
Scoring of the AD8 is extremely simple: two or more “yes” answers are strongly suggestive of dementia, with the test having a sensitivity of more than 84% and a specificity of more than 80%. Sensitivity refers to the test’s accuracy in identifying individuals with the disease (i.e., persons with dementia test as positive). Specificity refers to the test’s effectiveness in identifying people who do not have the disease (i.e., persons without dementia test as negative).
Usefulness
In addition to its use as a screening test for dementia, the AD8 is especially useful as a way to involve the caregiver. Caregivers can complete the AD8 at home in the presence of their loved one and then bring the results to the appointment, which may help the clinician to more effectively diagnose and treat dementia.
Overall Advantages and Disadvantages
The AD8 is a rapidly administered, reliable test for Alzheimer’s and other dementia that can be performed at home or in other settings. It has an extremely simple scoring system, with two or more “yes” answers suggesting that further diagnostic tests are warranted. A disadvantage is that an informant may not be available.
