Clinical Area: Memory and Cognitive Decline
Clinical Area: Memory and Cognitive Decline
When Memory Changes Raise Questions
Memory changes can be one of the most concerning experiences for individuals and their families. Changes in forgetfulness, word-finding, organization, or mental efficiency can raise important questions, but it is not always easy to determine whether those changes reflect normal aging, stress, medical factors, or a more significant cognitive concern.
A comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation provides an objective and detailed look at how memory and other cognitive systems are functioning. By examining patterns across areas such as learning, attention, executive functioning, language, and processing speed, evaluation can help clarify what is happening and what next steps may be appropriate.
At Coherence, neuropsychological evaluation for memory concerns and cognitive changes is provided by Jennifer Linton Reesman, PhD, ABPP. Her approach combines careful clinical assessment with an understanding that concerns about memory often carry significant emotional weight for individuals and the people who care about them.
The goal of evaluation is not only to identify areas of difficulty, but to provide a clear understanding of strengths, changes, and practical recommendations that can support planning, decision-making, and quality of life.
How we work
Neuropsychological evaluation for memory concerns at Coherence looks at memory functioning in a detailed and multidimensional way. Evaluation may examine how a person learns new information, recalls information immediately and after a delay, recognizes previously presented material, and responds to cues or support when recall is difficult.
These distinctions matter because different conditions can affect memory in different ways. Looking at the pattern of performance across memory tasks, rather than focusing on one score or one moment of difficulty, helps provide a clearer understanding of how memory systems are functioning.
Memory evaluation is also part of a broader assessment of cognition. Neuropsychological testing may examine areas such as language and word-finding, attention, processing speed, executive functioning, reasoning, and visuospatial abilities. The relationship between these different areas often provides important context for understanding cognitive changes and identifying meaningful patterns.
Evaluation can also establish a detailed baseline of current functioning, which may be useful when monitoring changes over time. In situations where cognitive concerns may evolve, having an objective point of comparison can help guide future clinical decision-making.
An important part of the evaluation process is considering factors that may influence cognitive functioning, including mood, anxiety, sleep, medications, medical conditions, and other health-related factors. Understanding these contributors helps create a more complete picture and ensures recommendations address the factors most relevant to the individual’s functioning.
Our Communication
Communicating Findings to Families
Evaluation for memory concerns and cognitive changes at Coherence includes a dedicated feedback session focused on helping individuals and families understand the findings and what they mean in everyday life.
Jennifer Linton Reesman, PhD, ABPP approaches feedback with both clarity and care. Results are discussed in a way that explains the pattern of strengths and challenges identified during evaluation, whether findings are reassuring, suggest the need for additional medical follow-up, or indicate areas where ongoing support may be helpful.
The purpose of the feedback session is not only to review test results, but to help individuals and families understand the broader clinical picture. Questions are welcomed, recommendations are explained in practical terms, and next steps are discussed so families leave with a clearer understanding of what the evaluation shows and how to move forward.
Please note that contacting this practice does not establish a patient provider relationship.
Planning Ahead
What Evaluation Findings Can Support
When neuropsychological evaluation identifies meaningful cognitive changes, the findings may have implications beyond clinical care. For some individuals and families, understanding current functioning can help inform conversations about future planning, support needs, and decisions that may be important to address while the individual can actively participate in those discussions.
Jennifer Linton Reesman, PhD, ABPP’s evaluations for memory concerns and cognitive changes include recommendations focused on practical next steps, which may include medical follow-up, supportive services, and considerations for planning with appropriate professionals when needed.
These conversations can carry significant emotional weight for individuals and families. Jennifer Linton Reesman, PhD, ABPP approaches feedback sessions with care, providing clear explanations of findings while allowing space for questions, reflection, and discussion about what the information means for the person’s life moving forward.
Inquire About Memory Evaluation at Coherence
Contact us to learn more about neuropsychological evaluation for memory concerns.