To gather information about an individual's brain functioning, we offer neuropsychological testing. This type of testing is considered the gold standard in cognitive assessments.

At Bethesda Hospital, evaluations are completed by neuropsychologists, licensed psychologists who have special training in how the brain functions. Testing is done on an outpatient basis.

Neuropsychological testing uses standardized tests to assess:

• Intellectual functioning
• Academic ability
• Attention
• Language
• Visual-spatial ability
• Memory
• Learning
• Problem-solving
• Reasoning
• Motor functioning

Emotional functioning is also usually assessed during an evaluation.

When testing is used

Neuropsychological testing is used to diagnose, evaluate and treat a variety of injuries and conditions, including:

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
• Stroke
• Lack of oxygen to the brain
• Brain tumor
• Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)
• Stroke and cerebrovascular disease
• Alzheimer's disease
• Parkinson's disease
• Concussion
• Demyelinating disorders (e.g. multiple sclerosis)
• Neurodegenerative disorders
• Other neurological disorders

How test results are used

Information gained from testing can help guide you, your family and your care team in determining and obtaining the best assistance for your situation.

Testing can provide information about:

• Returning to work
• Returning to school
• Returning to contact sports
• Driving
• Need for supervision
• Guardianship/conservatorship
• Learning disabilities
• Beneficial social services
• Financial management
• Referrals to cognitive therapies
• Strategies for dealing with cognitive impairments (e.g. memory loss)