A neurological evaluation consists of a physical exam and a number of simple and painless tests. These tests aim to assess your neurological function, including your muscle strength, how your autonomic nerves are functioning, and your ability to feel different sensations. Our physicians at Hope Neurological & Medical Services will provide further testing for any neurological disorder you could be suffering from.
WHAT IS NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING?
A neuropsychological evaluation is a test to measure how well a person’s brain is working. The abilities tested include reading, language usage, attention, learning, processing speed, reasoning, remembering, problem-solving, mood and personality, and more.
WHAT MENTAL FUNCTIONS ARE ASSESSED IN A NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL EXAM?
If you are undergoing a neuropsychological assessment, the mental functions tested include:
General intellect
Reading/reading comprehension
Attention/concentration
Learning and memory
Reasoning
Processing speed
Visuospatial skills
Motor speed and dexterity
Mood and personality
Executive functions are higher-level skills to organize, plan, manage time, problem solve, multi-task, make judgments, and maintain self-control.
Language usage and understanding of what others say
WHAT COMMON COMPLAINTS MIGHT SIGNAL THE NEED FOR A NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL TEST?
See your healthcare professional for a referral for a neuropsychological assessment if you or a loved one show any of the following signs:
Changes in short-term memory, asking the same question repeatedly
Poor attention and concentration. Doesn’t appear to listen. Gets confused in conversation.
Confusion
Can’t recognize things
Poor judgment/decision-making
Visuospatial difficulties, including difficulty drawing or using a map
Can’t recognize familiar persons
Frequently loses items, gets lost easily
Language difficulty. Has difficulty speaking or finding words or cannot understand what others say
New difficulty with understanding or managing bills or finances.
WHAT SHOULD I DO TO PREPARE FOR THE NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL EXAMINATION?
Get a good night’s sleep
Try to eat a good breakfast
Take all your medications as usual unless you are instructed to do otherwise.
If you use glasses, contact lenses, or hearing aids, ensure you have them.
If you have had any neuropsychological, psychological, or academic testing done in the past, bring those records with you.
BOOK AN APPOINTMENT
Call our clinic at (404) 631-6156 for our neurological evaluation so our doctors can determine the right course of treatment.