COGNITION

The Trail Making Test is a commonly-used neuropsychological test that is sensitive to a variety of neurological impairments and processes, providing information on visual search, scanning, speed of processing, mental ability, and executive functions. The scores represent the amount of time required to complete the task. The cognitive alternation required by Part B reacts to executive functioning, although other cognitive abilities, such as psychomotor speed and visual scanning, are also required for the successful completion of the test. Studies show declining performance with increasing age, which forms the basis of the age references presented on the reports.