Background Early and regular assessment is needed to identify cognitive impairment in older adults. The use of telehealth or telecognitive assessment is widely applied in some aspects of health services, but it is unclear if cognitive assessments conducted in this way are reliable.

Aim To examine whether using a handheld device to complete a cognitive assessment in adults can provide reliable scores, whether participants would be satisfied to complete a cognitive assessment by videoconference and if they would prefer face-to-face or telehealth assessment, and what challenges might be associated with telecognitive assessment using a handheld device compared with using face-to-face methods.

Method Participants (n=27) were given a series of cognitive assessments face to face and using a handheld device. Results were examined for reliability, logistical and technical challenges, and participants were questioned about which they preferred.

Results Cognitive assessments made with the handheld device were effective and reliable, and produced results that were comparable to those made with face-to-face assessments. However, more participants preferred face-to-face assessments than handheld device assessments. Several technical limitations were also noted during the assessments made using the handheld devices.

Conclusion Although scores made using the handheld device were reliable, preliminary evidence suggests there are some tangible barriers to integrating telehealth into all settings for all patients.