Author says groups working with Indigenous communities in Central America must have trusted partner, perseverance.

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) can be an early indicator of Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, so identifying those with cognitive issues early could lead to interventions and better outcomes. But diagnosing MCI can be a long and difficult process, especially in rural areas where access to licensed neuropsychologists is limited.

To increase accessibility to cognitive assessments, a team of researchers at the University of Missouri created a portable system to efficiently measure multiple aspects of motor function. The device is simple and affordable, combining a depth camera, a force plate and an interface board.

As urbanization and climate change bring more coupled risks to cities, a new study in Engineering offers practical perspectives. It focuses on a complex systems approach, emphasizes the role of human factors, and presents methods like a standardized taxonomy and people-centric strategies to better understand and manage these risks.