How is your cognitive health?
What is cognitive health?
Your brain’s ability to sense, think and learn
Includes awareness, attention, focus, memory, language abilities, reading
and problem-solving
Is affected by physical conditions, medication, emotional state, sleep,
alcohol and marijuana use, and many other variables
Often such abilities are taken for granted until there is a change in the
person’s ability to function at school, work and/or home
How are brain disorders classified?
Through the use of symptoms and observations from the patient and others
who know them (family, friends and/or coworkers)
Is there a way to determine your cognitive health?
Yes! A thorough neuropsychological exam compares a person’s abilities to
their age group (and sometimes to their educational level as well)
The pattern of results is then carefully interpreted and compared to
persons with ‘normal aging’ and various categories of brain disorders
Recommendations are made regarding possible compensatory strategies
in addition to lifestyle factors affecting cognition (such as sleep and
exercise)
How do I find out more details regarding my brain health?
Minimize searches on the internet and social media (such as “Dr. Google”)
Talk to your PCP (MD, DO, PA, NP) about the use of various tests to rule
out contributing physical conditions (diabetes, thyroid, vascular disease)
Consult with a psychologist or therapist specializing in rehabilitation to
identify and treat factors affecting cognitive functioning