Speech, language, and communication deficits are present in most neurodegenerative syndromes. They enable the early detection, diagnosis, treatment planning, and monitoring of neurocognitive disease progression as part of traditional neurological assessment. Nevertheless, standard speech and language evaluation is time-consuming and resource-intensive for clinicians. We argue that using machine learning methodologies, natural language processing, and modern artificial intelligence (AI) for Language Assessment is an improvement over conventional manual assessment. Using these methodologies, Computational Language Assessment (CLA) accomplishes three goals: (i) provides a neuro-cognitive evaluation of speech, language, and communication in elderly and high-risk individuals for dementia; (ii) facilitates the diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy efficacy in at-risk and language-impaired populations; and (iii) allows easier extensibility to assess patients from a wide range of languages. By employing AI models, CLA may inform neurocognitive theory on the relationship between language symptoms and their neural bases. Finally, it signals a paradigm shift by significantly advancing our ability to optimize the prevention and treatment of elderly individuals with communication disorders, allowing them to age gracefully with social engagement.

Language assessment plays a crucial role in diagnosing and treating individuals with speech, language, and communication disorders caused by neurogenic conditions, whether developmental or acquired. However, traditional manual assessment methods have several drawbacks. They are often laborious and time-consuming to administer and score, causing additional patient stress. Moreover, they divert valuable resources from treatment. To address these challenges, we introduce Open Brain AI (openbrainai.com), a computational platform that harnesses innovative AI techniques, including machine learning and natural language processing, to automatically analyze spoken and written speech productions. The platform leverages state-of-the-art AI techniques and aims to present a promising advancement in language assessment. Its ability to provide reliable and efficient measurements can enhance the accuracy of diagnoses and optimize treatment strategies for individuals with speech, language, and communication disorders. Furthermore, the automation and objectivity offered by the platform alleviate the burden on clinicians, enabling them to streamline their workflow and allocate more time and resources to direct patient care. Notably, the platform is freely accessible, empowering clinicians to conduct critical analyses of their data and allowing them to allocate more attention to other critical aspects of therapy and treatment.