Neuropsychology specializes in understanding brain-behavior relationships. Individuals of all ages sometimes experience problems with their cognition, or thinking abilities (e.g., memory and attention). This can be due to a variety of reasons.
Through an assessment, a neuropsychologist can obtain a thorough understanding of someone’s thinking problems, including whether their cognition is impaired or well below where it should be given their age and general background. This assessment can then pinpoint whether one’s thinking problems are primarily due to neurological or brain-based factors, emotional and behavioral difficulties, or both. Additional contributors to one’s cognitive problems such as fatigue or chronic pain can be identified as well.
Once the source of someone’s cognitive difficulties have been clarified through an evaluation, neuropsychologists can discuss the findings with the person and their family, as well as connect them to appropriate resources that will help them better manage their particular situation and related difficulties.
Who Can Benefit From Neuropsychological Assessment?
Individuals with a wide variety of known or suspected brain-based conditions or injuries are often referred for a neuropsychological evaluation. A few examples include:
- Dementia (e.g., Alzheimer’s disease)
- Head injury/concussion
- Stroke and cardiovascular disease (e.g., high blood pressure)
- Seizure disorders
- Movement disorders (e.g., Parkinson’s disease)
- Autoimmune disorders (e.g., multiple sclerosis)
- Brain tumor/cancer
- Genetic Disorders
Through an evaluation, the extent, if any, of cognitive decline can be better understood. An initial neuropsychological assessment can also act as a baseline, from which future re-evaluations can be compared. This allows for someone’s thinking to be monitored, and for his or her changing needs to be addressed over time.
If Problems are Found, Then What?
A neuropsychological evaluation can be thought of as a jumping-off point from which recommendations and/or services can be made to better manage someone’s difficulties. Examples may include:
- Various strategies and suggestions to improve and/or help to cope with cognitive problems (e.g., forgetfulness, inattention)
- Understanding someone’s unique learning style to optimize cognitive strengths and improve cognitive weaknesses
- Strategies and accommodations that can be implemented to improve or enhance work performance
- School accommodations and learning strategies targeting academic difficulties or weaknesses
- Treatments that can help to improve someone’s mood/emotional struggles
- Supportive services for the individual and/or family members, such as support groups, associations, and outside activities and programs
- Driving-based recommendations to make sure someone is safe on the road
- Lifestyle changes to improve overall health, such as those related to diet, exercise, and sleep
- Health care, financial planning, and legal guardianship determination
Click the links below to download informational brochures about Neuropsychology.
- Adult Neuropsychology Brochure
- Pediatric Neuropsychology Brochure
- What is a Clinical Neuropsychologist (NAN)