What Is the Purpose of a Cognitive Test for Dementia?
Cognitive tests for dementia allow health professionals to determine if a patient is experiencing a decline in their thinking ability. A cognitive test can also help determine if a patient requires additional testing for Alzheimer’s or has mild cognitive impairment. Patients with Parkinson’s disease may also receive neurological tests for dementia to identify potential cognitive impairment.
What to Expect During Your Cognitive Test
There are several different types of cognitive tests available for patients. Each test involves answering questions and performing simple tasks to test mental functions such as short and long-term memory, language and awareness of time and place. The evaluation also includes an in depth clinical interview as well as involving caregivers when appropriate.
After Your Cognitive Test
After your dementia evaluation, you will receive your results. If you receive a dementia diagnosis your therapist may categorize it as a mild, moderate or severe case. However, this test cannot diagnose the exact of your dementia. To learn the cause, you may need to return to your doctor or see a specialist.
While dementia is not curable, you can slow the symptoms with medicines and healthy lifestyle habits. If you are experiencing anxiety or depression after your diagnosis, our therapists will help you come to terms with your diagnosis and develop healthy coping strategies or recommend medications as needed.