Assessing Executive Function Using a Computer Game: Computational Modeling of Cognitive Processes

TL;DR

This paper presents a computational model that uses data from a computer game to assess executive function and related cognitive processes, aiming for early detection of cognitive decline.

Contribution

The study introduces a novel computational approach that decomposes the Trail-Making Test into independent processes estimated from game data, enabling remote cognitive assessment.

Findings

Game data can estimate cognitive process parameters.

Parameters correlate with traditional TMT performance.

Potential for early neurological problem detection.

Abstract

Early and reliable detection of cognitive decline is one of the most important challenges of current healthcare. In this project we developed an approach whereby a frequently played computer game can be used to assess a variety of cognitive processes and estimate the results of the pen-and-paper Trail-Making Test (TMT) - known to measure executive function, as well as visual pattern recognition, speed of processing, working memory, and set-switching ability. We developed a computational model of the TMT based on a decomposition of the test into several independent processes, each characterized by a set of parameters that can be estimated from play of a computer game designed to resemble the TMT. An empirical evaluation of the model suggests that it is possible to use the game data to estimate the parameters of the underlying cognitive processes and using the values of the parameters to estimate the TMT performance. Cognitive measures and trends in these measures can be used to identify individuals for further assessment, to provide a mechanism for improving the early detection of neurological problems, and to provide feedback and monitoring for cognitive interventions in the home.