This screening test is relatively sensitive to detecting early cognitive changes associated with many common dementing illnesses, including Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia. However, it is insufficient to diagnose a dementing disorder.
This test is composed of eight sentences, each one representing a change generated by cognitive problems (thinking and memory). No timeframe for change is required.
1. Problems with judgment (e.g., problems making decisions, bad financial decisions, problems with thinking)
2. Less interest in hobbies/activities
3. Repeats the same things over and over (questions, stories, or statements)
4. Trouble learning how to use a tool, appliance, or gadget (e.g., VCR, computer, microwave, remote control)
5. Forgets correct month or year
6. Trouble handling complicated financial affairs (e.g., balancing checkbook, income taxes, paying bills)
7. Trouble remembering appointments
8. Daily problems with thinking and/or memory

Each sentence has three possible answers.
1. YES, a change
2. NO, no change
3. N/A, don’t know

The final score is a sum of “Yes, a change”. Cutoff points are:
0 or 1: normal cognition
2 or >2: cognitive impairment is probable to be present

The test is given to the respondent on a clipboard for self–administration or can be read clearly to the respondent either in person or over the phone.

See reference for more information.

Adapted from Center to Advance Palliative Care Tools and Resources. Dementia Care. AD8 Dementia Screening. Internet. Available at https://www.capc.org/toolkits/measurement-best-practices/?utm_source=Center+to+Advance+Palliative+Care&utm_campaign=39e7036998-Non+Members%3A+CAPC+Toolkits+6.21.2021&utm_medium. Accessed on Octobrt 20, 2021.