Assessment

Neuropsychological Testing

Testing is useful and sometimes necessary to assist with diagnoses and to specifically evaluate various areas of cognitive functioning including: attention, learning, memory, processing speed, visual-spatial functioning, executive skills and more.

At BHR, the emphasis is on identifying strengths and weaknesses in order to make useful and practical recommendations for daily functioning, future goals and planning, develop a plan for cognitive rehabilitation (if applicable) and increase quality of life. Evaluations may also be tailored to a specific question, such as those related to attention and memory, capacity for making decisions, driving ability, return to work, or simply obtain baseline cognitive functioning. Learn more below.

Dementia Evaluations

According to the World Health Organization, around 50 million people have dementia worldwide. There is one new case every three seconds and the number of people with dementia is set to triple by 2050. In the US, there is an estimated 5.8 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s dementia. The increasing numbers of people with dementia, has a significant social and economic impact. While there is no cure for dementia, there are evidenced-based recommendations on lifestyle behaviors and interventions to delay or prevent cognitive decline and dementia. It all starts with prevention and early assessment.

Dementia is the general term used to refer to several diseases affecting memory, other cognitive abilities and behavior that interfere significantly with a person’s ability to maintain their activities of daily living. Dementia is not a normal part of aging although age is a risk factor.

If you are ambivalent about having a professional evaluation but would consider a self-assessment for you or your loved one, contact us.

Capacity Evaluations

In general, the term capacity refers to the ability to make decisions and it consists of four elements (understanding, appreciation, reasoning, and communication).

Some examples include:

  • Medical Consent

  • Financial Management

Capacity is also evaluated with respect to:

  • Self-Care

  • Living Independently

  • Driving ability

  • Estate Planning