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

## TL;DR

This study explores whether eye-tracking technology can be used to screen for dementia in adults with Down syndrome, who often have difficulty with traditional cognitive tests.

## Contribution

The study introduces eye-tracking as a potential non-verbal cognitive screening method for individuals with Down syndrome and dementia.

## Key findings

- Eye-tracking calibration was successful for most participants, though some required multiple attempts.
- Participants with dementia showed longer times to first fixation but similar fixation durations compared to those without dementia.
- Staff support was essential for task completion and maintaining attention during testing.

## Abstract

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.