|
What is a Neuropsychological Assessment?
A neuropsychological evaluation is recommended if changes in memory, thinking or behavior are suspected or to monitor the neuropsychological effects of medical therapies over time. Typical referrals are made to help diagnose or rule out various conditions, and to describe their impact on a person's cognitive functioning.
|
What tests are used?
|
The standardized tests used typically assess functioning in the following areas: memory, attention, problem-solving abilities, visual-spatial functions, language functions and motor functions. Assessment of academic skills and emotional functioning, while not exclusive to neuropsychological evaluation, is often performed as well. An interview with the client and/or family members is usually included to provide insight into behavior in other settings, such as the school or home environments. Additionally, review of school and medical records may be included in the evaluation process.
The total time of the neuropsychological evaluation will vary according to the referral question. A typical one-day evaluation takes about four hours of testing to complete. A portion of the time will be spent speaking with the neuropsychologist. Pediatric evaluations are usually divided into several appointments as they tend to be longer. Patients are encouraged to take breaks during the evaluation. |
What is the outcome?
|
The product of a neuropsychological evaluation is a set of conclusions about the individual's functioning, as well as specific recommendations to guide treatment or enhance functioning. The conclusions and recommendations are developed by integrating information obtained from the standardized testing, interviews, records and other observations, and are formulated in a comprehensive report delivered either to the referring physician or to the patient.
|