Concordance of results in evaluating cognitive functions using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and Picture Naming and Immediate Recall (PICNIR - Hedgehog Version) in elderly institutionalized people

Aim: The aim of the research was to assess cognitive functions of elderly people in nursing homes using standardized tests - Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and Picture Naming and Immediate Recall (PICNIR). Methodology: The study included 76 clients from three nursing homes. The assessment of cognitive functions was carried out using the standardized tests MoCA and PICNIR (Hedgehog Version). Statistical processing was performed at a significance level of alpha = 0.05. Results: The average score in MoCA was 20 points, and the average results in PICNIR were 3/5. According to MoCA (with a threshold score of <= 24 points), 21%of elderly people had a normal cognitive state, and according to PICNIR, 25% of respondents reached the norm. No statistically significant difference in the level of cognitive functions was found in either the MoCA or PICNIR tests in relation to sex, education, or length of stay in the nursing home. However, a statistically significant difference in the level of cognitive functions was demonstrated in relation to age, cognitive training, and physical exercise, and it was found that individuals undergoing cognitive training and physical exercise achieved better results in both tests. A concordance in the detection of cognitive impairment using MoCA and PICNIR was confirmed in 97% of cases. A significant correlation was found between the MoCA and PICNIR tests. The Pearson correlation coefficient between MoCA and PICNIR- Mistakes in Naming demonstrated a negative correlation of -0.625 (P < 0.001). The Pearson correlation coeffi cient between MoCA and PICNIR - Correctly Recalled Picture Names indicated a positive correlation of 0.86 (P < 0.001). Conclusion: Early detection and monitoring of cognitive deficits using screening tests should be an integral part of providing long-term care for elderly people. The PICNIR test is a suitable choice for early detection of cognitive deficits and can serve as a comparable alternative to the MoCA test.