Cognitive Impairments: Executive Function

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First Chapter Free Buy Course

Part of a multiple-part series of courses on cognitive impairments seen in neurologic conditions, the purpose of this course is to review issues relevant to physical therapists related to executive function and self-awareness. Although these cognitive functions are not the direct focus of physical rehabilitation, therapists should be knowledgeable about the effects of executive dysfunction and impaired self-awareness as they relate to safety and prognosis.

Meet your instructor

Karen L. McCulloch

Karen L. McCulloch is a professor in physical therapy in the Division of Physical Therapy, Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she has taught entry-level and advanced-level students in neurorehabilitation since 1993. She has served in multiple roles within…

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Chapters & learning objectives

1. Executive Function Definition, Assessment, and Observation

This chapter answers the question, "What is executive function?" Components of the brain involved in executive function are covered, highlighting the prefrontal cortex as a critical structure. Neurologic disorders and injuries that commonly demonstrate executive function deficits will be discussed.

2. Intervention for Impairments in Executive Function

Many executive function tests are administered by neuropsychologists or speech pathologists; however, these office-based tabletop or computer tests may not reflect "real-life" function clearly. This chapter covers different assessments used during executive function intervention and how a therapist can observe behaviors in their patient.

3. Self-Awareness

This chapter answers the question, "What is self-awareness?" Its influence on motivation and participation in therapy is discussed, as well as how it plays into the patient's safety and ability to be independent. Common self-awareness deficits and agnosias that may be present after a neurologic injury/damage are covered. Also described are screening and standardized measures for identifying executive function or self-awareness deficits.

More courses in this series

Foundations of Cognitive Impairments: Understanding Attention

Karen L. McCulloch

Foundations of Cognitive Impairments: Attention Examinations and Interventions

Karen L. McCulloch