What Is A Cognitive Test? The Various Ways Of Understanding The Mind
The brain controls all aspects of the body, as well as processes like learning and understanding, which are often referred to as “cognition.” Over the years, cognitive tests have been developed to examine and understand how various parts of the brain function. Understanding the purpose of cognitive tests, the types available, and how to respond to the results can help you better understand your brain. In some cases, mental health conditions like depression might affect your cognitive abilities. If this is the case for you, attending therapy may be helpful.
What is a cognitive test?
A cognitive test is any standardized neuropsychological test that can identify differences or deficiencies in cognitive function. These tests often examine areas like the following:
- Memory
- Thought processes
- Understanding language
- Using language effectively
- Being able to use visual and spatial skills
- Learning new skills or ideas
- Remembering new information in the short term
- Paying attention
- Being able to reason
- Making sound decisions
- Perceiving information
- Applying judgment
Cognitive screening tests may tell a person if they have a deficit in any cognitive function areas, as certain deficits could signal the presence of cognitive diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia. These tests can also look for intellectual and learning disabilities, which can help individuals get support to function more effectively in their professional and academic pursuits.
Cognitive tests might be performed alongside a psychological examination, which can also look for mental illnesses. However, they are often conducted in healthcare settings and administered by doctors like neurologists and neuropsychologists.
What can the results of a cognitive test indicate?
Each cognitive test is different. Some tests look for the potential for dementia, whereas others may evaluate a person’s cognitive abilities. When you undergo a cognitive test, your provider can explain in detail what to expect from the results and which conditions or challenges you might be facing. However, the following challenges are commonly assessed in cognitive testing:
- Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI) or stroke
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Dyslexia, dyscalculia, and other learning disorders
- Intellectual disabilities
- Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) from older age
- Hypothyroidism
- Vitamin deficiencies or other nutritional challenges
- Mental health conditions like depression or anxiety
- Post-traumatic stress
Note that a cognitive test is not necessarily a diagnostic tool. A qualified provider must review the test results and may use other methods alongside the test to determine whether a diagnosis is necessary. In general, a medical doctor must perform testing to diagnose dementia and other forms of cognitive decline.
Types of cognitive testing
There are many cognitive tests and cognitive screening options. Below are a few exams you might encounter when seeking support.
Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE)
The Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) includes 11 questions to evaluate a person’s cognitive abilities and usually takes five to 10 minutes. Those who score above 25 on the test generally have a normal result. Under 25 points could indicate cognitive impairment. This exam looks at recall, language, orientation, registration, attention, and copying behaviors based on one’s responses to the questions.
Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA)
The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) is one of the most commonly used assessments to look for cognitive changes. The test involves 30 questions to look for early signs of conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. According to the MoCA website, over 2000 studies support its effectiveness, and the test is offered in over 100 languages worldwide.
Mini-Cog
The Mini-Cog is a shorter version of the MMSE. This test takes about three minutes to complete and can be used to help doctors identify cognitive impairments in older adults, often those who might be living with dementia. The test looks at word recall and clock drawing, which may help doctors recognize whether someone is showing the first signs of dementia.
IQ testing
An intelligence quotient (IQ) test typically evaluates the range of a person’s cognitive abilities and the types of cognitive skills in which they excel. In general, IQ tests are being used less frequently to determine intelligence, as many types of intelligence aren’t evaluated by traditional IQ tests.
People who don’t excel in logical reasoning, pattern recognition, and spatial awareness may have high social or emotional intelligence, for instance. A low IQ may sometimes indicate an intellectual disability. These tests may be used during a neurological examination as part of the diagnostic process for conditions like autism.
How to move forward after receiving test results
If you or someone you love has received a result indicating a potential cognitive difficulty or condition, talk to your test provider about the results and what they mean for you. The provider may recommend starting treatment or completing cognitive exercises to improve your abilities. Treatments for dementia may include preventative medications, working with a neurologist, and planning for the future. However, each person’s treatment plan may differ, and it’s vital to communicate with your doctor to determine what is best for your specific situation.
Ways to improve cognitive function
Cognitive performance can often be addressed at home with exercises that have been scientifically proven to improve cognitive function. Below are a few options.
Physical activity
Physical and mental health tend to be intrinsically connected, so caring for your body can boost your mental well-being. In addition, the Alzheimer’s Society reports that regular exercise can reduce the risk of dementia by 28%.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness has also been studied as a potential prevention method for dementia and other cognitive concerns. In one study, people who meditated frequently experienced growth in their hippocampal regions, leading to potential increased cognitive ability.
In addition, mindfulness can reduce one’s risk of anxiety, depression, and chronic stress, which are conditions that may contribute to memory loss and difficulty concentrating.
Music
Music typically activates parts of the brain associated with emotional memory and sensory input, which can lead someone who has lost connection to other parts of the brain to recall certain memories, even if they struggle to do so with other prompts or cues. In a 2023 study, group music therapy improved cognitive function in people with dementia.
Therapy
Cognitive challenges are sometimes associated with mental health conditions and stress, and dementia can also cause significant difficulties. Those interested in finding coping strategies and tactics to improve cognitive function may benefit from working with a licensed mental health professional.
If attending therapy in person isn’t feasible or accessible, you might choose to connect with a therapist through a platform like BetterHelp. Online therapy platforms can connect you with a therapist from any location with an internet connection, and you can often match with a qualified professional within 48 hours.
Studies suggest that online therapy can be more effective than face-to-face options in some situations. In a 2018 study, internet-based treatment appeared to be more effective than face-to-face options in reducing anxiety and depression symptom severity, increasing quality of life, and providing a cost-effective treatment option for clients.
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