Executive deficits and qualitative errors are sensitive to prodromal changes in individuals with Subjective Cognitive Decline

Subjective Cognitive Decline (SCD) is a heterogeneous entity that frequently manifests in individuals who seek neuropsychological consultation. Recent research on the relationship between SCD and its possible progression to Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and dementia has prompted the study of cognitive changes present in preclinical stages, with the challenge of assessing them more reliably. Executive dysfunction and qualitative errors appear to be key features in this continuum. Therefore, the present study aimed to analyze executive performance and qualitative errors in cognitive tests administered to SCD cases and cognitively healthy controls. The INECO Frontal Screening (IFS), the Free and Cued Selective Reminding Test (FCSRT), and the Tower of London (ToL) were administered to 40 older adults: 20 SCD cases (age: 71.8 ± 5.0 years) and 20 cognitively healthy controls (age: 66.8 ± 4.0 years). The results showed poorer overall executive performance (IFS) in the SCD cases (**p < 0.001). The presence of qualitative errors in the FCSRT differed significantly between groups, being observed in 50% of the SCD cases but absent in the control group (*p < 0.001). Similarly, on the ToL, SCD cases made more qualitative errors than controls (p < 0.01). In conclusion, the findings indicate that executive performance deficits and qualitative errors in cognitive testing are sensitive markers of prodromal changes in individuals with SCD. Their identification may improve the accuracy of neuropsychological assessment in preclinical stages and contribute to earlier and more targeted clinical interventions