Psychometric validation for a brand-new tool for the assessment of executive functions using 360 degrees technology

EXecutive-functions Innovative Tool 360 degrees (EXIT 360 degrees) is an original 360 degrees instrument for an ecologically valid and multicomponent evaluation of executive functioning. This work aimed to test the diagnostic efficacy of EXIT 360 degrees in distinguishing executive functioning between healthy controls (HC) and patients with Parkinson's Disease (PwPD), a neurodegenerative disease in which executive dysfunction is the best-defined cognitive impairment in the early stage. 36 PwPD and 44 HC underwent a one-session evaluation that involved (1) neuropsychological evaluation of executive functionality using traditional paper-and-pencil tests, (2) EXIT 360 degrees session and (3) usability assessment. Our findings revealed that PwPD made significantly more errors in completing EXIT 360 degrees and took longer to conclude the test. A significant correlation appeared between neuropsychological tests and EXIT 360 degrees scores, supporting a good convergent validity. Classification analysis indicated the potential of the EXIT 360 degrees for distinguishing between PwPD and HC in terms of executive functioning. Moreover, indices from EXIT 360 degrees showed higher diagnostic accuracy in predicting PD group membership compared to traditional neuropsychological tests. Interestingly, EXIT 360 degrees performance was not affected by technological usability issues. Overall, this study offers evidence that EXIT 360 degrees can be considered an ecological tool highly sensitive to detect subtle executive deficits in PwPD since the initial phases of the disease.

Automated summary

The study aimed to test the diagnostic efficacy of EXIT 360 degrees in distinguishing executive functioning between healthy controls and patients with Parkinson's Disease (PwPD). The results showed that PwPD made more errors and took longer to complete EXIT 360 degrees. There was a significant correlation between neuropsychological tests and EXIT 360 degrees scores, indicating good convergent validity.