Cognitive impairment may occur as a result of a variety of causes and manageable underlying conditions related to but not limited to cardiovascular and/or metabolic conditions, sleep disorders, hormonal imbalances, depression, chronic pain, post-concussion, post-stroke, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, ADHD, autism, and neurological, focal, vision and hearing impairment, or chronic conditions as type-2 diabetes. Cognitive impairment may also be a result of long-term poor lifestyle choices such as substance abuse, sedentarism, and unhealthy diets.

Studies show that a healthy diet, exercise, occupational therapy and other lifestyle changes involving patients and caregivers may delay disease progression. The earlier the testing, the earlier the patient is diagnosed and can be managed appropriately.

Here are some patient examples that demonstrate the importance of early detection and testing:

• A patient took the Cognivue® test and received a score that was in the low-moderate cognitive impairment range. The patient presented symptoms of both a cognitive impairment and sleep apnea. Early detection led to the patient being prescribed CPAP. After six months, the patient was retested and scored significantly higher placing the patient in the normal cognitive function range. Overall, the patient’s quality of life improved and the patient is much more productive.

• A patient scored in the severe cognitive impairment range. The physician ordered blood work, administered the depression scale, and found that the patient had a history of untreated depression. The doctor prescribed anti-depressants and used Cognivue to monitor the patient’s cognition over time. The clinical score improved each time the patient took the test and the patient is enjoying a happier and healthier lifestyle.

Through routine cognitive testing, you can identify changes in cognitive function when early detection and proper management can make a difference.