Motivation, Worries and Digital Affinity in Cognitive Screening - Qualitative Findings From the CogScreen Study

<b>Background:</b> Subjective cognitive decline is considered one of the earliest signs of Alzheimer's disease (AD), making early detection crucial for disease-modifying treatments to have the greatest impact. The CogScreen study, supported by the Davos Alzheimer's Collaborative Healthcare System Preparedness Program, evaluates tools for community-based screening of AD in its early stages. This study investigates subjective experiences, focusing on motivations, concerns, and potential improvements regarding digital tools used in cognitive assessments.<b>Methods:</b> Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with a random selection of 28 participants with subjective cognitive decline or healthy controls. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed using conventional content analysis (MAXQDA, VERBI Software, 2024). <b>Results:</b> Analysis identified emergent themes related to the usability of digital tools, the importance of clear communication, and the desire for a more personalized research experience. Participants highlighted motivations and concerns regarding the implementation of digital assessments. <b>Discussion:</b> Findings support the feasibility of integrating digital assessments in aging populations and underscore the importance of addressing participants' motivations, concerns, and digital affinity when introducing innovative tools into clinical practice. <b>Conclusion:</b> Insights from this study contribute to future participant engagement strategies and the development of early detection methods for cognitive impairment. <b>Trial Registration:</b> CogScreen is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT06191952).