Israel – New study use musical tests for early detection of cognitive decline

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have created a method which uses musical tests and a portable brain activity-measuring device to detect cognitive decline in older people. It measures 15 minutes of electrical brain activity while the user is performing simple musical tasks.

“Our method enables routine monitoring and early detection of cognitive decline in order to provide treatment and prevent rapid, severe deterioration,” said the researchers involved in the study.

During the test, the user wears a portable electroencephalography (EEG) device, with three electrodes attached to their forehead. They are then given instructions through headphones, asking them to perform musical-cognitive tasks. For example, pressing a button each time every instrument is played in a melody, then pressing it only when the violin is being played…