# Psychometric properties of the NIH Toolbox Cognition Battery composites in older adults at risk for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias: A systematic review

## TL;DR

This study reviews how well the NIH Toolbox Cognition Battery works for measuring cognitive function in older adults at risk for Alzheimer's and related dementias.

## Contribution

The study provides a systematic review of the psychometric properties of the NIH Toolbox Cognition Battery composites in older adults and those at risk for dementia.

## Key findings

- The psychometric evidence for the Crystallized composite is strong, while the Fluid composite shows developing evidence.
- The Total composite scores show varying levels of psychometric robustness in older adults.
- More research is needed to fully understand the performance of the NIH Toolbox Cognition Battery in ADRD populations.

## Abstract

This systematic review evaluated the psychometric performance of the National Institutes of Health's Toolbox Cognition Battery (NIHTB‐CB) composite scores in older adults with and without Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD). A systematic literature search was conducted using MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, and CINHAL databases. The evidence quality of NIHTB‐CB measurement properties was assessed using integrated Consensus‐based Standards for the Selection of Health Measurement Instrument (COSMIN) methodology and the Interpretation/Use Argument framework. Fourteen studies met inclusion criteria for this review of the NIHTB‐CB. Evidence supporting the scoring, generalization, and extrapolation inferences of the Total, Crystallized, and Fluid composite scores in older adults ranged from developing through exemplary ratings. Findings indicate additional research is warranted on the NIHTB‐CB in older adult and ADRD populations. The present study highlights the importance of continued use and research of the NIHTB‐CB in diverse, older populations who are at risk for ADRD.

Limited research focuses on the National Institutes of Health's Toolbox Cognition Battery (NIHTB‐CB) composites in older adults.The general psychometric robustness of the NIHTB‐CB has been es.The Crystallized composite shows proficient psychometric evidence.The psychometric evidence of Fluid composite is developing due to limited data.

Limited research focuses on the National Institutes of Health's Toolbox Cognition Battery (NIHTB‐CB) composites in older adults.

The general psychometric robustness of the NIHTB‐CB has been es.

The Crystallized composite shows proficient psychometric evidence.

The psychometric evidence of Fluid composite is developing due to limited data.