What is a Neuropsychological Evaluation?
A neuropsychological evaluation is a comprehensive assessment of cognitive and behavioral functions using a set of standardized paper and pencil tests and procedures. Various mental functions are systematically tested, including: intelligence, language, problem solving and planning, organizational skills, attention, memory, learning, personality, and mood.
What is a Neuropsychological Evaluation Like?
Generally, a neuropsychological evaluation involves a wide variety of paper and pencil tasks. The evaluation can take up to 6 hours of face-to-face contact, but can vary widely depending on the individual and what information is needed. Rest & lunch breaks are taken to ensure that an individual’s best performance is obtained. These evaluations are typically scheduled over the course of a single day.
How are the Test Results Used?
Use of the results varies. The purpose of most neuropsychological assessments is to confirm or clarify diagnoses (i.e., such as in dementia, brain injury, or other neurological conditions). The assessments can also provide a profile of mental strengths and weaknesses to guide management of the individual at home, work or other settings; document changes in cognitive functioning over time (i.e., when compared with prior neuropsychological examinations); guide compensatory strategies and management strategies (i.e., if environmental changes are needed).
