Ethical considerations in the neuropsychological assessment of older adults

Abstract

Translating core ethical principles and relevant ethical requirements into pragmatic action often presents its own set of challenges for geriatric neuropsychologists aspiring to practice at the highest ethical level. The purpose of this chapter is to provide pragmatic suggestions with an emphasis on preparation. Topics include (a) preparing the older adult and concerned others for what to expect from the assessment, (b) preparing all for potentially distressing results, (c) technical test preparation as seen in the thoughtful selection of instruments that are sufficiently comprehensive, adequately normed, and well grounded in current theory and research, and (d) ethically preparing the feedback session.