Rapid Fire
Cognitive Test
- 10 Jul 2024
- 1 min read
- Recently, the US President is facing calls to take a cognitive test amid concerns over his fitness for the presidency.
- The cognitive test evaluates mental function and how the brain processes thoughts by asking basic questions and having individuals perform simple tasks.
- Cognition is the brain’s ability to process all the information it takes in from your senses.
- It identifies cognitive deficits, their causes, and the affected brain regions.
- Based on the test results, a diagnosis is made of cognitive impairment, dementia, or pseudo-dementia, leading to interventions such as behaviour and cognitive therapies.
- It is recommended for people experiencing memory deficits, perceived memory loss or forgetfulness, difficulty focusing or making judgments.
Common Cognitive Screening Tests:
- Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) involves tasks like memorising words, naming objects, and copying shapes.
- Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE) includes counting backwards, identifying objects, and stating the date.
- Mini-Cog requires memorising words, drawing a clock, and adding time points.
