What is a Neuropsychological Evaluation

A neuropsychological evaluation can be an important tool in helping your parent’s doctor diagnose conditions that impact cognitive (mental) functioning. It can be used to help refine the diagnosis of memory problems by distinguishing between normal age-related memory loss and dementia. It also distinguishes between dementia and temporary memory problems caused or affected by emotional disturbance.

Neuropsychological testing can also assist in differentiating between different types of dementia, and is an effective way to monitor progressive decline and to provide important feedback regarding the efficacy of cognitive enhancing medications.

There are many causes of dementia, including degenerative diseases, vascular disease, infections, traumatic brain injury, or combinations of these conditions. Some dementias are progressive, whereas others are not.

A neuropsychological evaluation provides a comprehensive assessment of cognitive (mental) functions including attention and concentration, memory, language, motor functioning, reasoning, and executive functioning. Alzheimer’s disease, strokes and trauma each produce different patterns of dysfunction.

A thorough neuropsychological evaluation provides the necessary information needed to identify the actual cause of the symptoms, or what is referred to as a “differential diagnosis”.

When ordered by a physician, neuropsychological testing is covered by Medicare and paid at 80% and most private insurance companies will cover the 20% copayment. An evaluation with a focus on memory loss and suspected dementia typically involves a one-hour diagnostic interview and approximately 6 hours of testing.