About Cognitive Assessment Cognitive Assessment FAQ Preparing for a Cognitive Assessment What is Cognitive Function? The ability to perform normal activities of daily living depends on complex brain function. Different parts of the brain interact to result in our ability to think, remember, read and perform the effortless movements and thoughts that make up who we are. Cognitive function is the medical term used to describe these types of brain functions. Why is a Cognitive Assessment important? A Cognitive Assessment can assist in the early detection of memory disorders and dementia-related diseases. With early detection, many cognitive function conditions can be effectively managed or treated. Many memory disorders and dementia-related diseases such as Alzheimer's are associated with problems in cognitive functioning. Physicians need reliable information on cognitive function in order to properly diagnose and treat a patient. A Cognitive Assessment is the first step in providing the physician with specific brain function information. How is a Cognitive Assessment conducted? A Cognitive Assessment is conducted on a desktop computer using MindstreamsTM advanced interactive software. The computer program prompts the patient through a variety of tasks. Based on the patient's response, MindstreamsTM evaluates the brain functions that are critical to daily living, including: memory hand-eye coordination verbal skills reaction speed visual perception problem-solving ability The exercises typically take about 45 minutes to complete and are designed to determine if the level of brain function is within normal, age-specific ranges. Upon completion of the exam, an assessment report is generated and sent directly to your referring physican for review. What happens if the Cognitive Assessment detects abnormal cognitive functions? University MRI will send the referring physician a report with the findings of your Cognitive Assessment. After reviewing the report and your history, your physician will determine if further diagnostic tests are indicated. Additional diagnostic imaging exams may include a CT, MRI, or P.E.T. Scan. These highly advanced imaging tests can diagnose the cause of dementia-related diseases. University MRI is the only center is South Florida to offer Real-time Functional MRI, which allows the physician to view the brain as it is performing different cognitive functions. Once your physician has the necssary information to make a diagnosis, a course of treatment will be determined that may include medications, rehabilitation or other preventative measures. © 2004 University MRI