Cognitive Reflection Test (CRT) Practice

Which sign would indicate a need for further evaluation for Alzheimer disease?

1. Forgets daily medication schedule

2. Struggles to recognize family members

3. Forgets home address

4. Is confused by familiar surroundings

The correct answer is: Forgets home address

The sign indicating a need for further evaluation for Alzheimer disease is an individual forgetting their home address. Forgetting one's home address signifies a potential problem with memory that could raise concerns about cognitive functioning. This specific detail is something that individuals generally retain throughout their lives, and the inability to recall it may point to more significant memory impairment or difficulties with orientation and identity, which are hallmark signs of developing Alzheimer's disease. Forgetting a daily medication schedule, struggling to recognize family members, and confusion by familiar surroundings can also be concerning symptoms. However, these signs might be influenced by various factors, such as stress or temporary cognitive changes due to aging. In contrast, forgetting a fundamental aspect of one's identity, like a home address, suggests a more profound and concerning cognitive decline that warrants further assessment for Alzheimer disease or other forms of dementia.