Assessments
Assessments fall into two major categories:
Neuropsychological Evaluation/Assessment: Often, patients are referred for neuropsychological assessment by other medical professionals such as neurologists, psychiatrists, psychologists, and primary care physicians. Among the range of reasons why an adult might be referred for a neuropsychological assessment include:
• changes in cognitive functioning
• changes in personality
• changes in behavior
If you answer “yes” to any of the following questions, a neuropsychological evaluation should 
be considered:
- Have there been changes in memory or other cognitive functions?
- Is there a change in ability to perform tasks at home or at work?
- Is there a change in behavior that affects relationships or daily living?
- Is there a change in personality?
- Are medications being taken that may be facilitating or impairing cognitive
or behavioral functioning? - Has another medical professional recommended a neuropsychological evaluation?
For more information on Neuropsychological Evaluation/Assessment, click here.
Functional Assessments: This service includes direct assessment of the patien
t’s abilities in complex activities of daily living, also called instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), and is designed to be concise, cost-efficient, and geared towards clinical care.
A Functional Assessment with Dr. Michelle Papka may provide the information you need to decide whether or not you or someone you love has the cognitive ability to:
• Make financial decisions
• Write/checks/use money
• Maintain a home
• Use public transportation
• Use a telephone
• Respond in an emergency situation
• Take medications independently
• Make decisions about medical care
Having the information from a Functional Assessment allows for recommendations regarding level of care needed and gives family members piece of mind about making these types of decisions.
Consultations: Consultations are available as a supplementary service to the Functional Assessment, or as a stand-alone service if the comprehensive Functional Assessment testing is not desired. Dr. Papka is available on an hourly basis to help the patient and family with care planning decisions and to transition through roles, feelings, and conflicts.
For more information on Functional Assessments, click here.