Neuropsychological assessment
Neurological assessment was initially meant to assess impairment to some skill and to locate the area damaged due to injury or neurological illness. With the advent of new techniques it is now possible to examine effects of brain injury that a person may experience. An important part of neuropsychological assessment is conducting of neuropsychological tests to assess cognitive functioning. Various aspects of cognitive functioning include orientation, memory, language, visuo-perception and intelligence. Neuropsychological assessment takes into account a person’s personal, interpersonal and psychological circumstances.
A neuropsychologist carries out evaluation of neuropsychological disorders, assessment of individuals and management of neuropsychological tests. Neuropsychological assessment tests differ from patient to patient, but their evaluation procedures are common. Some of the neuropsychological disorders such as autism, learning disabilities and memory loss start at childhood stage. A neuropsychological assessment should therefore be carried out when you notice some of these symptoms in a child.
The first step in neuropsychological assessment is the determination of intelligence quotient of the patient. Next step is to find out exact academic abilities of the patient. Adult intelligence quotient tests for memory are either written or verbal. Other neuropsychological assessment tests include testing visual ability, long and short-term memory span and color blindness. Receptive tests are carried out to determine language and speech disorders.
Writing of neuropsychological assessment report starts after completion of all the tests. Neuropsychological assessment focuses on causes of psychological disorders and it may recommend possible solutions including admission into a rehabilitation center.
