A structured assessment of memory, thinking and behaviour to evaluate brain function.

Overview of the Condition

What is dementia?

Dementia is a condition that causes a decline in memory, thinking, language and decision-making skills needed for daily life. It happens when parts of the brain become damaged, most commonly due to Alzheimer's disease.

People with dementia may become forgetful, confused or have difficulty managing everyday tasks. Dementia is not a normal part of ageing, and it can affect life expectancy.

Causes / Why It Happens

Dementia affects around 7% of people over the age of 60 years. It is caused by damage to brain cells, most often due to diseases that gradually affect the brain over time.

This damage affects areas of the brain involved in memory, learning, language and decision-making. As a result, the brain cannot function properly. In some cases, dementia may be linked to inherited genetic changes.

Signs and Symptoms

Common symptoms may include:

• Memory loss
• Difficulty thinking, speaking or understanding
• Problems following instructions or managing daily tasks
• Confusion about time or place
• Changes in mood or behaviour, such as anxiety, depression or irritability
• Sleep problems
• Seeing or hearing things that are not there (hallucinations)

Diagnostic tests

Mental status examination: A series of questions and simple tasks used to assess memory, attention, language, thinking and awareness.

PET scan (positron emission tomography): Uses a small amount of radioactive tracer to assess brain activity and identify changes associated with certain types of dementia.

Neuropsychological testing: A detailed assessment of memory, concentration, language, problem-solving and other thinking skills to help identify cognitive impairment and its severity.

Test overview and preparation

Neuropsychological testing is a set of tests used to assess memory, concentration, language, problem-solving and other thinking skills. The tests help doctors understand how well your brain is working.

Neuropsychological testing may help to:

• Diagnose conditions affecting memory and thinking, such as dementia or brain injury
• Identify areas of thinking that are affected and areas that remain strong
• Monitor changes in brain function over time
• Help plan treatment, rehabilitation and support

Preparation Guidelines

• Try to get a good night’s sleep before the test
• Eat a normal breakfast or meal beforehand
• Take your usual medicines unless advised otherwise by your healthcare professional
• Bring glasses, contact lenses, hearing aids or other aids you normally use
• Bring copies of any previous psychological, educational or neuropsychological assessments, if available

Step-by-step

• Before the test, you may be asked to complete questionnaires about mood, behaviour or symptoms
• The neuropsychologist will discuss your medical history, symptoms, education and daily functioning
• Family members may also be asked for information, with your permission
• The tests assess memory, thinking, language, attention and motor skills
• Tasks may include answering questions, solving puzzles, writing, drawing or computer-based activities
• There are no “pass” or “fail” results — the aim is to understand your strengths and difficulties

Time required

• Several hours

Risks and benefits

Risks

• Neuropsychological testing is generally safe and does not have significant risks
• The assessment may last several hours, which can cause tiredness or difficulty concentrating
• Some people may feel overwhelmed or irritable after the testing
• It is helpful to plan a quiet and restful remainder of the day after the assessment

Benefits

• Helps diagnose conditions affecting memory, thinking and behaviour
• Identifies strengths and difficulties in cognitive skills such as memory, attention and language
• Helps monitor changes in brain function over time

Myths & Facts

Frequently Asked Questions