Doctors often use a range of tests to assess memory, problem solving skills, attention span, coordination, and abstract thinking abilities of a person. There are many different types of neuropsychological tests that can be used in the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, and these can help doctors determine the type of dementia a person may have, and to measure the disease’s progression over time.
Additionally, these tests can provide a thorough description of the behavioral symptoms so that they can be appropriately managed and monitored. The tests are also used to evaluate the effectiveness of the medications prescribed for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. Common tests include :
The MMSE is the most commonly used test and takes about 10 minutes to complete. Patients may be tested a number of times over a longer time period (such as every 6 months) to determine the rate of decline in performance over time.