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Neuropsychology; Cognitive impairment; Elderly; Evaluation; Intervention

Introduction

The aging population is growing rapidly worldwide, leading to an increased prevalence of cognitive impairments such as mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia. Accurate evaluation of cognitive functioning in elderly individuals is crucial for early detection, differential diagnosis, and intervention planning. Neuropsychological assessment offers a comprehensive approach to evaluate cognitive impairments by examining various domains of cognition, including memory, attention, executive function, language, and visuospatial skills. This case report illustrates the valuable role of neuropsychology in assessing cognitive impairments in elderly individuals, highlighting its importance in clinical practice [1-3].

Case Presentation

Mr. Jampha a 78-year-old retired accountant, presented with complaints of memory difficulties and word-finding problems. He reported increased forgetfulness over the past year, with particular difficulty in recalling recent events and names of acquaintances. His family also noticed a decline in his ability to plan and organize tasks. Medical history revealed controlled hypertension and hyperlipidemia. Neurological examination was unremarkable. A comprehensive neuropsychological assessment was conducted, revealing deficits in episodic memory, executive function, and processing speed, consistent with a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Additional imaging studies ruled out structural brain abnormalities. Mr. Jampha was provided with cognitive rehabilitation strategies and referred for regular follow-up assessments [4,5].

Mrs. Manksndri, an 82-year-old retired schoolteacher, presented with progressive difficulties in daily functioning, including forgetfulness, getting lost in familiar places, and difficulty managing finances. Her family reported personality changes, including apathy and irritability. Medical history was significant for diabetes mellitus and hypertension. Neurological examination revealed subtle extrapyramidal signs. Neuropsychological evaluation demonstrated impairments in multiple cognitive domains, including memory, attention, language, and visuospatial skills, indicative of a probable Alzheimer's disease (AD) diagnosis. Further biomarker assessments confirmed the diagnosis. Mrs. Mankandri and her family were provided with psychoeducation about AD and supportive interventions to manage behavioral symptoms [6-8].

Discussion

The presented cases underscore the importance of neuropsychological assessment in the evaluation of cognitive impairments in elderly individuals. Neuropsychological tests provide valuable information about the nature and severity of cognitive deficits, aiding in differential diagnosis and treatment planning. In Case 1, the findings were consistent with MCI, suggesting an increased risk for dementia, warranting close monitoring and early intervention. Case 2 exemplifies the utility of neuropsychology in diagnosing probable AD, guiding appropriate management strategies and support services. Integrating neuropsychological assessment with clinical observations and neuroimaging findings enhances diagnostic accuracy and facilitates personalized interventions tailored to the individual's cognitive profile.

Conclusion

Neuropsychological assessment plays a vital role in the evaluation of cognitive impairments in elderly individuals, enabling early detection, differential diagnosis, and personalized intervention planning. The presented cases highlight the utility of neuropsychology in identifying cognitive deficits, guiding diagnostic formulation, and facilitating targeted interventions to optimize cognitive functioning and enhance quality of life in elderly individuals with cognitive impairments.

Acknowledgments

None

Conflict of Interest

None

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