What is a neuropsychological evaluation, what good is it, and how is it best done? Let’s start by making a distinction between testing and evaluation. Tests are rigid, standardized, formal measuring tools to determine things like mastery of information, placement in school programs, and outcomes for clinical trials of drugs. The test administrator needs to be consistent, neutral, not help, and not give feedback that may influence the results. Many neuropsychologists administer “tests.”

On the other hand, an evaluation is more flexible. The interaction is less formal and can be modified to meet the needs and personalities of those needing evaluation. For example, memory evaluations start by observing whether the client is on time. Did he or she remember the paperwork? Can he or she find the office? Find their insurance cards? Know their birthdate? Remember a list of words? Evaluation can be more relaxed, friendly. The intention is to put the client at ease. After all, in forensic work the client may want to look as bad as possible. However, no one wants to look demented. Cheating and exaggeration are unlikely.

Neuropsychological evaluation is like blood work – but no one has ever fainted on me. The question addressed is that one has a set of brain skills that have served them well throughout life. The intent is to determine if those skills are holding or declining. Skills may include memory, thinking, problem solving, attention, judgment, using language, nonverbal problem solving. This is the stuff of independence and competence. When well done, the results describe strengths and weaknesses in a way that informs treatment of any deficiencies and takes advantages of strengths. The results inform caregivers of what they are managing and how to help compensate for weaknesses. The results scale the severity of the problem and serve as tracking devices to determine patterns over time and effects of treatments.

I feel strongly that family members should be part of the process. After all, if someone forgets that they forget they can’t tell you what you need to know. Indeed, not including family in the evaluation of memory is a formula for making mistakes that lead to incorrect treatment plans or incorrect assessment of severity of the problem. Furthermore, family members should sit in on the “testing.” That way they better see what they are dealing with. The assessment is part of the treatment and for memory disorders this is a family issue. Being there also enhances feedback, which should be in detail and understandable. Assessment is a teaching device for family members as well as clients with memory concerns.

Diagnosis is a minor part of the process. It informs physicians of treatment parameters. But neuropsychological assessment can be so much more. It is a human interaction. Clients and family deserve to understand not only the findings but also the implications as well as practical guidance of how to deal with often-difficult issues. Assessments should help understanding of how to have a good life despite memory loss as well as to inform decision-making.