Cognitive functions in Bogotá, Colombia

What are cognitive functions?

They are the mental abilities we use every day: attention (focusing), memory (storing and recalling information), language, orientation, processing speed and executive functions, which let us plan, organize, make decisions and control impulses.

What can affect them?

Stroke, head injury, dementia or Parkinson's, but also treatable causes: depression, anxiety, lack of sleep, thyroid problems, vitamin B12 deficiency or side effects of some medications. That is why a medical evaluation matters before assuming it is just age.

What is a neuropsychological assessment?

A neuropsychologist uses paper-and-pencil or computer tests to measure each function separately. The results show what is preserved and what is affected, help the doctor with the diagnosis and form the basis for treatment. It usually takes one or more sessions.

Can they be improved?

Yes. Cognitive rehabilitation and stimulation train the affected functions and teach strategies to compensate in daily life. Neuropsychologists, occupational therapists and, as support, music therapists take part, since music works on attention and memory in an engaging way. A neurologist or psychiatrist treats the underlying cause.

Find cognitive function specialists

On MedicosDoc you can find neuropsychologists, neurologists, occupational therapists and music therapists. Compare profiles and book your appointment.