Neuropsychology is Important in Alzheimer's and Cognitive Function - Here's Why

Evolving Past Alzheimer's

We're back on track...here's a really helpful discussion covering why neuropsychological testing is important if you are dealing with memory loss, cognitive impairment, Alzheimer's, Traumatic Brain Injury, and even problems with mood (such as anxiety and depression).

Kristine Lokken PhD is a functional neuropsychologist with a passion for helping people restore brain health. Her extensive background in clinical research, medical neuropsychology, and holistic wellness merged together to create the Brain Health Institute (BHI). In addition to her work at BHI, she served as the Director of the Rehabilitation Neuropsychology Service at the Birmingham VA Medical Center and instructed as a Clinical Assistant Professor at University of Alabama at Birmingham. She has maintained a private practice for over 15 years, and has seen thousands of patients with varying neurological and psychological issues in her clinical work. Dr. Lokken has published several articles in peer reviewed journals and has lectured extensively on brain health. Since the time of the recording of this episode Dr Lokken has relocated to Seattle, WA to be part of the Brain Health and Research Institute.

Neuropsychologic testing is essential to make a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or other dementia. This episode explores the role of a Neuropsychologist in a holistic approach to cognitive care. Our discussion begins by focusing basic definitions within the field of neuropsychology. We discuss what is coming down the line in terms of early recognition of Alzheimer’s from a neuropsychologist’s perspective. Later we take a deeper dive into the best tests or areas to test for early recognition. We touch on some of Dr Lokken’s recently presented evidence that homocysteine may be one of the more useful and affordable biomarkers to look at.

Dr Lokken talks about the value of online cognitive tests versus being evaluated by a Neuropsychologist. The discussion continues by looking at self-reported cognitive decline and what you can do if you feel you are worried about it. We finish talking about how the medical community has changed its perspective on prevention going back to the end of 2018 and what is possible in the future in terms of prevention.