How With Neuropsychological Assessment New York Doctors Can Help

By Essie Osborn


A neuropsychological assessment is normally done to try and measure the ability of an individual to carry out various mental functions such as concentrating on things or remembering things. It is more of a brain scan just like how the CT scan or MRI is done since it involves obtaining the picture of the brain. The difference, however, comes in the type of picture taken since in neuropsychological assessment it is an image of what the brain can do. After a neuropsychological assessment New York psychologists are able to advise their patients on the way forward.

The assessment program will involve different tasks in most cases. The main aim of this is to try and get more definite results before a conclusion is made. Some doctors use computer programs in their evaluation while others simply use a pen and paper. All in all, it does not matter because the objective is normally the same. The patient will then be guided on how to go about with the tasks given. For example, a list of words may be read out and the task in this case will be to try and remember them.

When the evaluation is being undertaken, easier tasks are first given as the level of difficulty is increased slowly. There will however come a time when the patient cannot do it anymore. It is from this point that the doctor can now be able to measure the individual.

There are a number of facts which doctors have to take into account when carrying out the assessments. One of these is the fact that not everyone can perform his/her best when doing something for the first time. Therefore, more than one task will be done even though they are all meant to test the same thing in relation to the memory. By doing so, the doctor is able to get an accurate picture and which is more reliable.

One should not be discouraged with the lengthy process of the program. There are times when it can take around three to four hours. This, however, makes things much easier when it comes to making a conclusion because the doctor can compare various results. From the results he/she will be able to conclude on your reasoning, remembering, concentration and problem solving abilities.

These tests are in most cases administered by specialized psychologists. They need to have undergone some special training on how to do the tests before practicing it. This, therefore, means that you need to determine the qualifications of your psychologist before enrolling for his program.

After the doctor has received the results, he/she can make a conclusion and advise you on which way forward, either treatment or a rehabilitation program. When making the decision on whether the assessment should be done or not, medical professionals are normally guided by the kind of condition that one is suffering from. This is because there are some diseases which are more likely to result to brain damage. Such include; Alzheimer, AIDS, Stroke, Epilepsy, Brain Tumor, Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson disease.

There are also other situations which can lead to the administration of these tests. These involve injuries that may lead to brain damage like suffering concussions or serious brain injuries. Also, it can be recommended if one has had an alcohol or drug related abuse which may have led to the brain being damaged. You may have also been affected after being exposed to chemicals, poisons or even pollution.




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