Neuropsychology 101 for Patients with Alzheimer’s or Dementia

Determining when to see a neuropsychologist for Alzheimer’s disease or Dementia may not be as straightforward as knowing when to see your primary care doctor for the Flu. However, if you notice symptoms in yourself or your aging loved ones like changes in thoughts, behavior or physical ability, you may need a referral to a specialist. A neuropsychologist can help you determine if there is an underlying condition present and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

Understanding Neuropsychology

The field of Neuropsychology primarily focuses on how the brain and nervous system affects how a person thinks and behaves. When patients have had brain injuries or other illnesses that can cause brain damage, like Alzheimer’s or Dementia, a neuropsychologist can determine how those conditions impact how the patient’s body works and how they process information.

When to Visit a Neuropsychologist

Often our patients have been referred to us by another doctor; however, you may want to reach out on your own if you see early signs of Dementia or Alzheimer’s disease in either yourself or a loved one. These signs can sometimes be challenging to see, but they usually include memory loss or forgetfulness, for example: forgetting someone’s name, common facts or appointments. Other signs include feeling lost or disoriented, trouble completing daily tasks or experiencing rapid mood changes. In these cases, it is best to meet with a neuropsychologist as soon as possible to explore these symptoms in more depth.

What Does a Neuropsychologist Do?

Since there is no single test for Alzheimer’s or Dementia, our trained staff will look at various factors, like blood tests and medical history, and run several different tests focused on critical thinking, memory, and motor skills. Once we confirm a diagnosis, we can begin to prescribe treatment that can slow or even reverse some symptoms. We can also show patients and their loved ones how to navigate life safely when symptoms present themselves. Our goal is to explain the extent of any neurological diseases and present you with the best care options.

Reflect Neuropsychology Can Provide Guidance

Reflect Neuropsychology is a leading neuropsychology firm in Southern California. We specialize in counseling, therapy and neuropsychological assessment of children, adolescents and adults. As a highly specialized practice, we can focus on evidence-based, personally tailored treatment and evaluation. To learn more about our services and schedule an appointment, visit us online or call us at (818) 324-3800.