Brain Function and Cognition

Questions and Answers

The ability to make sense of visual information is impaired

Memory loss is profound

The ability to hear is affected

The ability to control actions is lowered (correct)

To observe their reaction

To test the patient's memory

To intentionally cause stress

To bring cognitive symptoms to light (correct)

The patient's ability to make new memories

The patient's admission to the hospital

The patient's lack of oxygen to the brain

The degree of impairment caused by the injury (correct)

By consulting with those close to him Signup and view all the answers

Cognition exists beyond the brain and is influenced by social supports Signup and view all the answers

The type of communication and social framework Signup and view all the answers

Difficulties in thinking are likely to occur Signup and view all the answers

Cognitive amputation Signup and view all the answers

Clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist Signup and view all the answers

Addenbrooke's hospital in Cambridge Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Brain damage can affect cognition or awareness, e.g., damage to the frontal lobe can lower ability to control actions, while damage to the occipital lobe can limit ability to make sense of visual information.

Cognitive impairment is not just limited to brain function, but also depends on social supports around the individual.
A person's cognitive ability can be influenced by the people they interact with, and the degree of impairment can vary depending on the level of social support.
For example, a person with cognitive impairment may rely on reminders, family, and colleagues to make decisions and work through plans, which can support their cognitive function.

Clinicians use various methods to assess cognitive impairment, including surprise demands on patients to reveal cognitive symptoms.
A patient's ability to make new memories can be assessed through clinical probes, and their social environment can affect their performance.

Brain injury and dementia can lead to difficulties in thinking, and the degree of cognitive impairment can be influenced by the level of social support.
The type of communication and social framework of the patient can determine how well they function with diminished cognitive capacity.

Huw Green, a clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist, is working on a book about neuropsychology and personhood, highlighting the importance of considering social supports in understanding cognitive impairment.

Questions and Answers