How to prepare for a neuropsychology assessment
Having a neuropsychological assessment can be a new and unfamiliar experience for most people. So you may be wondering - What kinds of questions will the neuropsychologist ask me during the assessment? Do I need to study for it? Is there anything I need to do to prepare?
We answer these common questions below:
What questions will the neuropsychologist ask me?
Your neuropsychologist will first conduct a clinical interview with you. This is a discussion where they will discuss any concerns you have about your memory, thinking abilities and daily functioning. They will also ask questions about your medical history, family history and emotional health. They may ask about sleep and any alcohol or drug use. If you have brought a family member of friend along to the appointment, the neuropsychologist may invite them to provide their perspective as well (with your consent).
The neuropsychologist will then complete a number of standardised cognitive tests with you. These tests are designed to assess a wide range of cognitive abilities including attention, mental speed, memory, language skills, visual skills, planning abilities and mental flexibility. The tests are standardised - meaning that your performance is compared against normative data of people who are of the same age as you to allow for a fair comparison of your performance.
For some of these tests you will be required to give a verbal response, others may involve completing puzzles or paper-and-pencil tasks.
Do I need to study for a neuropsychological assessment?
No, you do not need to study for a neuropsychological assessment. It’s different from a test that you would do at school or university and there is no pass or fail. Try not to worry too much about your results. Instead focus on the questions and try to do your best. Most people find the process interesting and enjoyable!
How should I prepare for my neuropsychology assessment?
Get a good night sleep the day before.
Eat a good breakfast. You may also wish to bring a snack with you as the assessment can be long (at least a few hours though breaks can be taken as needed).
You can take your prescribed medications as usual before the assessment, unless you have specifically been told otherwise.
Do not consume any alcohol or recreational drugs the evening before or the morning of the assessment.
Bring a list of your medications.
Bring copies of any previous neuropsychological assessments or cognitive/psychometric assessments that you have had done.
Bring reading glasses or hearing aids if you use them.
More questions about a neuropsychological assessment and what to expect?
Get in touch with us at Thinking Mind Neuropsychology
Email: contact@tmneuropsych.com.au Phone: (02) 7813 0223
