Title : Cognitive performance over time: A pilot study using cogniscan
Abstract:
Objective: This pilot study explores cognitive changes over time using Cogniscan, a neuropsychological screening tool. The aim was to assess variations in attention, intelligence, and memory performance in a postgraduate student between two assessments conducted one year apart, providing preliminary insights into cognitive stability and change over time.
Methods: A single participant, a 27-year-old woman at the time of the first evaluation (March 2024) and 28 years old at the follow-up (February 2025), underwent cognitive assessments measuring alternating, concentrated, and divided attention, as well as non-verbal intelligence and recognition memory. At the time of the first assessment, the participant reported attention difficulties, particularly following a COVID-19 infection in late 2023. Results were compared across the two time points to identify preliminary patterns of improvement or decline in cognitive function.
Results: The data indicate stability in alternating attention (percentile 80 in both evaluations), while concentrated attention showed improvement from percentile 75 to 90. Divided attention increased significantly from percentile 40 to 80, suggesting enhanced multitasking capabilities. However, non-verbal intelligence declined from percentile 70 to 40, with an increase in errors, particularly in comprehension-based reasoning. Despite this decline, it is important to note that only 25% of individuals typically score above 30 in the normative sample, indicating that the participant's performance remains within an expected range. Recognition memory showed a slight decline from percentile 90 to 80. Reaction time remained in the “very low” classification across all attention tests, with minor variations.
Conclusions: These preliminary findings suggest cognitive improvements in attention-related tasks, particularly in focused and divided attention, which may reflect adaptive cognitive strategies. The reported initial attention difficulties and the subsequent cognitive improvements highlight a potential recovery trajectory following COVID-19-related cognitive complaints. However, a decline in non-verbal intelligence scores indicates potential challenges in problem-solving efficiency. As a pilot study, these results provide initial evidence of cognitive fluctuations over time and highlight the importance of continuous cognitive monitoring. Further research with larger samples is necessary to confirm these trends and explore interventions to enhance problem-solving skills while maintaining attentional gains.
Keywords: Pilot Study; Cognitive Assessment; Attention; Neuropsychological Screening; Memory; Intelligence; Post-COVID Cognitive Effects.
