Neuropsychology

Testing is often recommended when there is concern about thinking abilities, such as memory, attention, language, processing speed, reasoning, and problem solving. There may be an existing neurological disorder and testing can determine the extent of related cognitive problems. Alternatively, the cause of the cognitive concerns may be unknown. Knowing a patient’s cognitive strengths and weaknesses can help the patient and referring doctor understand the severity and cause of any problems and importantly, provide recommendations to address the symptoms. Sometimes, results are used to determine the patient’s risk for cognitive changes after surgery or other intervention.

Appointments include an interview to help the doctor understand the patient’s symptoms, as well as one-on-one objective testing of different thinking abilities, such as attention, language, memory, and problem solving. Appointments typically begin at 8:30 and may last until about 3:00. It is helpful for a family member to come to the interview portion of the appointment, if possible. Observations from others can help the doctor understand your symptoms more fully.

We often schedule a feedback appointment about one week after the evaluation to review the results and recommendations. It can be helpful for patients to bring a family member to the feedback appointment, since symptoms often affect others close to the patient, and these others often have a key role in providing treatment.

• Dementia, such as Alzheimer’s Disease
• Traumatic Brain Injury
• Stroke/Vascular
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Epilepsy
• Movement Disorders (e.g., Parksinson’s Disease)
• Brain Tumor
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Psychological Disorders

Should I take my regular medications on the day of the appointment?

Continue to take all medications as prescribed, with these exceptions:

• If the evaluation is to test for ADHD/ADD, and you are already taking an ADHD/ADD medication, please do not take it on the day of testing (with your doctor’s permission). These medications include Ritalin, Adderall, Concerta, Focalin, Strattera, and others.
• If you have any “p.r.n.” medications, that is, medications you only take “as necessary,” then try not to take them if possible. However, if the symptoms for which you are taking the medication might make it too difficult for you to concentrate and do your best on the tasks, then use your judgment and take the medication if you feel it is necessary.

What should I bring to the appointment?

• A completed Adult Neuropsychology History Form, which will be sent to your house about 1 week before the appointment.
• Reports from any previous neuropsychological or psychological testing, relevant medical records, and relevant school/job evaluations.
• Contact information for anyone outside of the Aurora system whom you would like us to send the results to.
• Glasses, contact lenses, and/or hearing aids, if you use them.
• Lunch, since we often take a lunch break. Alternatively, there are several local restaurants to choose from.

The best preparation is rest and relaxation, so try and get a good night’s sleep before your appointment.