Cognitive Dysfunction

Memory or Recall

Memory loss is most usually confined to recent events. Most patients do not have trouble with remembering information from the past but do have difficulty recalling information quickly and effectively.

Abstract Reasoning & Problem Solving

The ability to analyze a situation, identify important points, plan a course of action, and see it to fruition are normally affected. Judgment is at times impaired.

Verbal Fluency

Fluency with speech is another area affected in MS whereby the patient has word-finding problems because the verbiage they want to say cannot be thought of quickly enough.

STRATEGIES

Neuropsychological Evaluation involves assessment of intellectual function by a qualified physician. During this assessment, the physician performs various tests. When the area of cognitive dysfunction has been identified, it is common for patients to begin cognitive rehabilitation.

Support Groups alleviate fears and stigma of the problem of cognitive dysfunction and is beneficial in expanding the patient’s resources.

Communication with family about these problems is not only helpful to the person living with this symptom but by discussing this area helps to develop a basic understanding.