What is neuropsychological testing?

Neuropsychological testing is a series of written or computerized tests that measure specific thinking skills, such as memory, attention, language, judgment and executive function. The Alzheimer's Association says these more comprehensive tests are often given by a neuropsychologist and take more time than brief screening tests. Doctors may recommend them when an initial memory workup does not give a clear picture of what is causing the symptoms.

For dementia, neuropsychological testing helps detect early changes and tell types of dementia apart. A 2024 review in the Journal of Clinical Medicine notes that Alzheimer's tends to show problems with episodic memory and language, while Parkinson's disease dementia shows slower mental processing and difficulty with planning and visuospatial tasks. The results also guide practical recommendations for daily functioning at home.

Medicare Part B covers diagnostic tests and psychiatric evaluation as part of outpatient mental health care, and clinical psychologists are among the providers Medicare.gov lists. After the Part B deductible, you generally pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for visits to diagnose or treat a condition. Medicare.gov advises asking the provider what a test will cost and what Medicare will actually cover before you go ahead.

Neuropsychological testing can show distinct thinking profiles for Alzheimer's and other dementias, which makes a diagnosis more precise, according to a 2024 review in the Journal of Clinical Medicine. Accuracy depends on comparing results with norms that fit the person. The review warns that tests relying on reading, writing or culturally dependent skills can give false positives in people with less education or from groups the norms do not represent.

Usually through a referral from a primary care doctor to a neuropsychologist, neurologist or geriatrician. The Alzheimer's Association lists reasons for referral including an unclear diagnosis, unusual symptoms, behavioral or psychiatric symptoms, symptoms starting before 65, and a request for a second opinion. Memory clinics, including NIA-funded Alzheimer's Disease Research Centers, also have teams of specialists who assess thinking skills together.