Cognitive Assessments

Changes in memory, problem-solving, or attention can affect daily safety and independence. Our occupational therapy cognitive assessments provide clear insight into abilities, challenges, and strategies to support daily life and caregiving.

Understanding Cognitive Changes

Cognition plays a central role in safety, independence, and overall quality of life. Difficulties with memory, attention, organization, or judgment can create risks during everyday activities such as cooking, managing medications, or navigating the community. Our assessments identify both strengths and challenges, and provide practical strategies for clients and caregivers to support safe participation.

Our assessments may explore:

  • Memory, attention, and concentration.

  • Problem-solving and decision-making skills.

  • Ability to plan, organize, and follow routines.

  • Safety awareness in daily activities.

  • Impact of cognitive changes on independence and caregiver support.

Why It Matters

Cognitive changes may occur gradually with aging, after an illness, or following an injury such as a concussion or stroke. Identifying these changes early allows for strategies, supports, and safety measures that protect independence while reducing caregiver stress and risk of harm.

Tracking Change Over Time

Cognitive assessments are not only useful for identifying current needs but also for tracking changes in abilities over time. Through standardized, formal testing, occupational therapists can establish a baseline and re-assess at later points to monitor progress, decline, or stability. This information can be valuable for:

  • Supporting medical decision-making.

  • Adjusting care plans or safety strategies.

  • Providing families with reassurance and clear direction.

  • Documenting functional changes for healthcare or funding purposes.

Service Area:

Offering occupational therapy in Ottawa neighbourhoods such as Barrhaven, Gloucester, Kanata, and Vanier, as well as in nearby communities across Eastern Ontario, including Chesterville, Berwick, Morrisburg, and Arnprior.

What to Expect

  1. Initial Phone Call
    We gather background information, confirm consent, and discuss areas of concern.

  2. In-Home Assessment
    An occupational therapist uses standardized tools and functional tasks to evaluate strengths and challenges.

  3. Written Report
    A clear summary outlines findings and provides strategies tailored to the client’s needs.

  4. Recommendations
    Practical steps are provided to enhance safety, independence, and caregiver confidence.

  5. Follow-Up
    Support continues as needed to answer questions and guide implementation of strategies.

Common Questions

  • Anyone experiencing memory changes, difficulty focusing, or safety concerns may benefit, including older adults, individuals recovering from illness or injury, or those noticing gradual changes in daily function.

  • You will receive a written summary with clear recommendations. With consent, we can also share results with your healthcare team to support continuity of care.

  • Yes, small changes such as structured routines, safety cues, or environmental modifications can significantly improve daily participation and safety.

Concerned about changes in memory?

Call 514-898-4264, email info@elevatemobility.ca, or send us a message.

You can also visit our Resources page to access our Fall Prevention Checklist.

Every small change makes a big difference in safety.