Jul 6, 2012

Neuropsychological Evaluation

"We need to stay current with each other." Angeles Arrien

We also need to stay current with present levels of functioning and the resulting need for support.  Because of that, I took Dwane this week for another neuropsychological evaluation.  It was something I suggested to him when he asserted that he could live independently and/or at home with little assistance from me.  In the past three weeks he has been adamant that he did not need assisted living.  This delusion was supported by some unskilled listening.  So, I suggested to him that nobody made me God, and why didn't we get an objective opinion? (even though I am trained to do the tests and observations that were conducted with him)  The appointment was made with the best neuropsychologist in the region, and the results were just what I have observed and very clarifying for both of us.  It is no wonder that it is confusing for Dwane and for those of us who care about him.  His IQ is still within the average range.  He has very superior visual memory, and his general memory and verbal skills are very good.  But, he has two areas which have been severely impaired by Lewy Bodies Dementia.   The two severely impaired areas are cognitive flexibility and the ability to apply judgment to his decisions and actions.  It is this last area that impacts his safety.  He is no longer able to judge and make decisions that will keep him safe.  The neuropsychologist confirmed that assisted living was the environment necessary for his safety.  I hope this lays to rest for all of us whether or not this is the necessary setting.

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