Have you ever thought about obtaining a baseline of your thinking and cognitive skills? Many people are becoming increasingly aware of how immensely helpful this information about their health is and now is a good time to seriously consider it. Obtaining a cognitive baseline provides you with an objective point against which future cognitive changes can be compared. This allows for more accurate detection of cognitive changes or declines over time and helps your primary care physician offer the best possible care. It allows you to track symptoms progression, monitor treatment response, and helps by providing you with the appropriate diagnosis should this become indicated.
The American Heart Association stated that continuity in patient care and vigilance for cognitive changes is essential, and that early recognition of decline, -anchored in a known baseline- can facilitate identification of treatable causes and support planning for patients and their families. Other organization, such as The American Diabetes Association and the Endocrine Society, also suggest adults consider obtaining a cognitive baseline.
Who should consider this type of testing:
- If you have a family history of dementia (Alzheimer’s, Parkinson, etc.)
- If you have risk factors such as diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic conditions
- If you have a history of neurological injury or illness
- If there are concerns about the effects of certain treatments (medication changes, medical treatments) before treatment is started
- If you want to have information about your cognitive level of functioning for your own medical file
How baseline testing can help:
- Distinguish between normal age-related changes and cognitive decline due to a medical cause (ex. mild cognitive impairment, dementia, etc.) or reversible conditions (ex. depression and anxiety)
- Comparing current cognitive performance to a previously established baseline improves the specificity and diagnostic accuracy, particularly in distinguishing between normal aging and dementia
- Establishing a cognitive baseline enables more precise and individualized follow-up care
Our baseline cognitive testing is focused, quick, and specific to your needs. Dr. Lee Kim is a board certified, PhD-level neuropsychologist (her bio) who has years of training in assessing cognitive skills in adults, including helping determine the presence of early onset neurological changes. She has trained many neuropsychologists and medical students/residents in detection of cognitive changes.
If you would like more information about cognitive baseline testing or would like to schedule an appointment, we are here to help! Call at (248) 644-9466. It’s always a good time to take care of your health!
