How Cognitive Tests For Dementia Can Aid In Early Detection

Dementia refers to a set of symptoms that involve a progressive decline in cognitive abilities such as memory, problem-solving, and language skills. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, but there are other types as well—such as vascular dementia, dementia with Lewy bodies, and several others. Recognizing the signs of dementia and seeking early diagnosis can be crucial for symptom management and improved quality of life as the person’s condition progresses. Below, we’ll delve into the importance of early detection, the role of cognitive tests in this process, and how a therapist may provide support for individuals and their loved ones navigating the complexities of dementia.

What is dementia?

Dementia is an umbrella term used to describe a set of symptoms that are caused by certain brain disorders like Alzheimer's disease. The abnormal brain changes these disorders cause result in a progressive decline in cognitive abilities and can affect mood, behavior, and emotions, eventually preventing independent functioning and causing death.

Alzheimer’s disease

The most common cause of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, which is estimated to be responsible for up to 80% of cases. It’s also possible for abnormal brain changes to be caused by more than one type of dementia, as in mixed dementia, or other health conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease. 

Symptoms of dementia

The symptoms of dementia can vary significantly based on what type of condition is causing it and the current stage of the disease. In general, however, symptoms begin with signs of mild confusion and forgetfulness as well as mood swings and personality changes. Over time, they’ll typically worsen and come to include signs like delusions, agitation, and jumbled speech. Eventually, a person may be unable to speak, swallow, or move independently, signaling the final stage of dementia.

Dementia symptoms are progressive, which means that they start out minor and gradually worsen with time. If you or a loved one are experiencing memory problems or other changes in cognition, it’s generally recommended that you meet with a healthcare professional. They may be able to identify an underlying treatable condition or provide an early diagnosis of dementia, which could benefit both patients and their caregivers.

The potential benefits of early dementia detection

A healthy brain initiative sponsored by the California Department of Public Health breaks down some key potential benefits of early dementia detection: 

• Improved lifestyle choices. Early diagnosis can encourage a person to make lifestyle changes that may help preserve cognitive function, such as getting blood pressure under control, stopping smoking, exercising regularly, and staying mentally and socially active.

• Connection to resources. Early detection may help individuals and their families get familiar with community resources and programs for those with dementia right away.

• Connection to treatment options. An early diagnosis often provides the individual with the opportunity to find treatment options that may help lessen symptoms such as memory loss and confusion, even if only for a limited time. Additionally, those in the earlier stages of dementia may be eligible for a wider variety of clinical trials, if interested.

• More time to plan. Early detection usually means more time to plan for the future. This can allow individuals to:

• Express their wishes about legal, financial, and end-of-life decisions

• Review and update legal documents

• Discuss finances and identify care preferences with their families

Cognitive tests for dementia

Cognitive tests are typically essential tools in the early detection of dementia. These tests can help identify early signs of cognitive decline, allowing for timely intervention and management. Some common cognitive tests used by healthcare professionals to diagnose dementia include:

• Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). This 30-question test assesses attention, orientation, memory, language, and other cognitive skills. It takes about 10 minutes to complete and provides clinicians with a broad overview of a person’s cognitive function.

• Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). This 11-item test takes 10–15 minutes to complete and includes tasks like memorizing words, naming objects, and copying shapes. Scores range from 26–30 (likely normal), 20–25 (possible mild cognitive impairment), to below 20 (suspicious for dementia).

• Mini-Cog. The Mini-Cog is a quick, three-minute assessment that involves a three-item memory recall test and a clock-drawing test. It can be useful for rapidly assessing cognitive impairment.

• SAGE (Self-Administered Gerocognitive Exam). This test helps doctors determine if further evaluation is necessary by assessing various cognitive domains.

Value of cognitive tests for dementia and Alzheimer’s disease

These tests can be valuable for identifying cognitive issues early and enabling individuals and families to connect with appropriate treatments and support resources promptly. Even though no cognitive tests can diagnose dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, these tests can be helpful as a screening tool for detecting mild cognitive impairment.

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How therapy can help with dementia and Alzheimer's disease

Some types of talk therapy may be beneficial to individuals experiencing dementia, and it’s other types such as Alzheimer’s disease, as research suggests, because it may help them manage mild cognitive impairment and signs of anxiety and depression. A licensed provider can provide a safe space where the person can process their emotions about their condition and learn healthy coping mechanisms for stress and other difficulties dementia may present. Talk therapy can also be helpful to caregivers and loved ones of individuals with dementia. Cognitive behavioral therapy in particular may help a person address difficult feelings, manage stress, reduce their risk of burnout, and cultivate a toolbox of healthy coping mechanisms. 

Those who are unable to travel to and from in-person therapy sessions due to illness, a busy schedule, or another reason may find online therapy to be a more convenient alternative. Through a platform like BetterHelp, you can get matched with a licensed therapist who you can meet with via phone, video call, and/or in-app messaging from home or anywhere you have an internet connection.