Experts explain cognitive tests and their results amid concerns about Biden's mental acuity
The national fixation on whether the holder of the highest office has declining mental acuity is ongoing, and doctors have begun to weigh in.
Thanks to the national spotlight on the president following his performance during the last presidential debate, both Republicans and Democrats have asked for further accountability, including a cognitive test.
Biden has not visited a neurologist, according to a report by Fox News. However, he did undergo his annual physical evaluation in February, according to Dr. Kevin O'Connor, the president's physician, in a statement released by the White House on July 8.
The physician reiterated that Biden's physical examination did not indicate any concerns regarding a neurological disorder, according to the official report by the White House.
Recent Interview
In an interview with George Stephanopoulos, Biden declined formal cognitive testing, stating, "I have a cognitive test every single day" related to his duties as president. However, a significant number of Americans have expressed a desire for increased transparency.
"I am writing today to request that you urge President Biden, in the strongest possible terms, to take a cognitive and neurological exam and to share the results with the American people," Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.)wrote to Dr. O’Connor on July 12.
According to the United States Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) website, there is insufficient evidence to recommend cognitive impairment screening tests for older individuals.
Nevertheless, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services website indicates that the free Medicare annual wellness visit does include the detection of cognitive impairment.
How a Cognitive Test Works
To find out what cognitive testing can and cannot detect, reporters consulted with prominent neurologists. No one who provided feedback on President Biden's health has ever examined or treated him.
"Cognitive tests are designed to measure a range of mental functions and abilities, targeting specific areas such as memory, attention and concentration, language, and processing speed," Dr. Fred Cohen, assistant professor of medicine and neurology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York, told Fox News Digital.
These examinations can be broken down into three categories: screening tests, mental status examinations, and neuropsychological research.
"The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and neuropsychological testing are all important tools doctors and neuropsychologists can employ to assess a person’s behavior and thinking ability," Dr. Michael S. Okun, medical adviser for the Parkinson’s Foundation and director of the Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases at University of Florida Health, told Fox News Digital.
