Developing a Microcomputer Based Automated Testing System for use with Psychogeriatric Patients

Abstract

Microcomputers are increasingly being used in psychiatry for a variety of purposes. When used in computer-patient ‘interviews’ they have generally proved acceptable—indeed popular—with psychiatric patients. Automated psychological assessment is one form of computer-patient interview that is attracting much interest. Some of the early applications were with elderly patients. Kendrick has expressed doubts regarding this application with the current generation of elderly people, suggesting that their relative unfamiliarity with computers and video games might cause difficulties.