Is it Alzheimer's? Neuropsychological testing helps to clarify diagnostic puzzle

This patient displayed a pattern of neuropsychological test results that indicated early Alzheimer's dementia. Using neuropsychological testing to make the diagnosis provided an answer for the patient, family, and psychiatrist, who all recognized a problem, and allowed for future planning. Recommendations for the patient included: psychoeducation and support for the patient and family assistance with planning for the future, including discussions of advance directives and financial management re-evaluation of the patient's ability to drive a motor vehicle a trial of a cholinesterase inhibitor such as donepezil or rivastigmine ongoing health maintenance, including periodic screening for depression and other psychiatric symptoms repeat neuropsychological assessment in 6 months to 1 year to assess rate of decline and confirm the diagnosis.