What is a memory test?
Memory tests evaluate short and medium term memory capacity. They are used to detect possible memory loss and its associated disease. Identifying memory capacity is essential to establish memory exercises to aid recovery.
Sometimes, memory loss is a consequence of depression. It can be difficult to differentiate between memory loss and confusion due to this illness.
Memory tests are an excellent mental gymnastics, which allows to control, evaluate and improve the person’s memory. It is estimated that from the age of 25 years, thousands of neurons disappear daily and regular training allows to cope with this irreversible disappearance.
What does it consist of?
There are several memory tests, usually with simple questions of short duration. Most of these consist of a variety of questions that can encompass several aspects:
- Patient communication
- Memory
- Sense of orientation
- Spatial questions
- Attention and concentration
- Hygiene
They may also include questions to be answered by family members or people close to the patient, so that the specialist has a more complete picture.
The memory test can detect Alzheimer’s disease.
Why is it performed?
As the years go by, memory capacities are reduced. This can be considered as a normal symptom of aging but also of a serious disease.
The main form of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, which is characterized by a decline in intellectual and memory capacity. It is very beneficial to detect the pathology early, as this can slow down the negative effects. There are also other conditions that can cause memory loss in adults that need early diagnosis to receive proper care.
Preparing for the memory test
The memory test will be performed by a neurologist who will ask several questions. This test can be performed at home, a nursing home or a hospital. It is recommended that the person be accompanied by a family member or friend.
No special preparation is required to perform a memory test. It is important to perform it during the first symptoms which may include:
- Repeatedly asking the same questions
- Mixing up or forgetting common words when speaking
- Getting lost in familiar areas
- Storing objects in inappropriate places
- Mood swings for no apparent reason
What does it feel like during the exam?
During the examination the patient will not feel anything special. It is important that you sit in a comfortable and safe place.
What abnormal results mean
In conjunction with the memory test, the specialist will likely perform a general physical examination and evaluate other thinking skills. The specialist may require a blood test and brain imaging tests.
Once memory impairment and its pathology have been identified, patients can receive early and appropriate treatment. This is highly beneficial for:
- Starting treatments and controlling symptoms.
- Informing yourself and family members and loved ones about the disease
- Decide on future care preferences
- Resolving financial or legal issues
The specialist can also make a number of recommendations that will help the patient cope with memory loss and other associated symptoms of dementia.
Advances
We are constantly working on new studies and research to develop new tests to detect cognitive disorders. New, shorter and simpler tests are usually developed, which allow detecting with great accuracy if a person has memory problems or other associated signs.