What is Cognitive Function?
Cognitive Functions refers to the “higher” brain functions such as memory and reasoning that occur in the brain.
What common cognitive problems do people have?
•
Memory
Memory•Attention & Concentration
Attention & Concentration•Word-finding
Word-finding •Speed of information processing
Speed of information processing •Abstract reasoning and problem solving
Abstract reasoning and problem solving•Visual spatial abilities
Visual spatial abilities•Executive Functions
Executive FunctionsWhat is the most common cognitive problem experience by adults?
Memory and concentration.
Can cognitive problems worsen during periods of stress?
Yes.
Can cognitive problems worsen over time?
Cognitive change is difficult to assess.
Cognitive performance can vary during even short periods of stress.
A number of factors can impair cognition temporarily.
Recent studies have shown that cognitive retraining (especially when combined with microcurrent therapy) can slow progression and reduce cognitive impairment.
How Do I Know If I Have Cognitive Problems?
Do you have trouble with any of these?
•Keeping track of appointments
Keeping track of appointments•Remembering conversations
Remembering conversations•Balancing a checkbook
Balancing a checkbook•Staying focused on a task
Staying focused on a task•Coming up with words
Coming up with words•Organizing projects
Organizing projectsAsk your family or friends -- they may see things that you don’t notice
If you think you may have cognitive impairments, see a therapist that specializes in this area for an evaluation. A specialist can help you identify cognitive changes, identify cognitive impairments and develop a rehabilitation program.
Evaluating Cognitive Problems
A cognitive communication assessment can provide you with realistic information on strengths & impairments. An assessment includes a battery of tests. A detailed interview with a Medical Speech/Language Pathologist can also help identify cognitive impairments.
What can I do if my work is affected by my cognitive impairment?
Comprehensive assessments are important when evaluating ability to work, possibilities for re-education, driving ability or even disability.
A specialist can give you the proper tools & strategies to cope with
cognitive challenges. There are many interventions and strategies to help overcome these challenges. A specialist can give advice on solutions and how to speak to your employer. A specialist can educate your employer and co-workers about the nature of you problem and make recommendations for accommodations.
Ask for an accommodation—this disability is covered by the
Americans with Disabilities Act
Cognitive rehabilitation helps individuals develop coping strategies
And take control of their situation.
What is Educational Consultants Group’s role in your rehabilitation?
Cognitive rehabilitation focuses on developing compensatory strategies.
Compensatory strategies offer alternate ways to perform a task
that has become difficult. Developing filing systems, checklists,
memory aids, reading comprehension strategies, time management, and/or
special-purpose diaries.
Memory and Cognition
Did you know?
Copyright 2010 Educational Consultants Group | Last updated: July 9, 2011
- Educational Consultants Group offers a variety of services for memory and cognition. Click on the brochure above for more.
- 40% of people with MS have cognitive issues.
- Loss of smell is an early indicator of Alzheimer's Disease.
- Alzheimer's Disease is one of four major types of Dementia and represents approximately 2/3 of the diagnosis of individuals with Dementia.
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