Neurocognitive Function Assessment (CNS Vital Signs)

Computerized testing of cognitive performance across domains such as memory, attention, and executive function.

Neurocognitive Function Assessment (CNS Vital Signs)

Table of contents

Basic data

The CNS Vital Signs neurocognitive test is a clinically validated digital assessment tool that evaluates a wide range of brain functions. It includes multiple mini-tests (e.g., verbal memory, psychomotor speed, executive function) and generates a comprehensive cognitive performance profile.

The results help identify cognitive strengths and weaknesses and can be tracked over time to detect subtle cognitive changes. It’s commonly used in clinical research, aging studies, and by practitioners interested in early signs of neurodegeneration or cognitive decline.

Category: Cognitive tests

Level: Intermediate

Usefulness: High

Level

Intermediate

While not essential for beginners, this test is valuable for those seeking to track brain health proactively. Ideal for users with a foundation in sleep, diet, and training who wish to assess cognitive performance under aging, stress, or recovery interventions.

Usefulness

High

CNS Vital Signs provides a rapid, standardized, and clinically validated method to assess cognitive function — helping identify patterns of decline or enhancement.
Tracks multiple cognitive domains

Assesses attention, processing speed, executive function, memory, reaction time, and more — giving a holistic view of brain performance.

Early detection of cognitive decline

Useful in detecting mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or tracking age-related decline before clinical symptoms appear.

Supports intervention planning

Helps determine how lifestyle, supplementation, or therapeutic interventions impact cognitive performance over time.

How it works

The test is conducted on a computer or tablet and typically takes 30–40 minutes. It consists of a sequence of cognitive challenges that measure mental speed, accuracy, and capacity.
Online or supervised administration

The test can be self-administered at home or performed under professional supervision in clinical settings.

Automated scoring and reporting

Results are processed automatically, generating percentile-based scores across domains, plus composite indices.

Measures

CNS Vital Signs evaluates several core cognitive domains to provide a detailed profile of brain function.
Verbal and visual memory

Assesses the ability to encode, store, and retrieve verbal and visual information.

Complex attention and processing speed

Measures sustained focus and the speed of information processing — often affected by fatigue or stress.

Executive function

Evaluates planning, flexibility, and inhibition control — key for decision-making and multitasking.

Reaction time and psychomotor speed

Quantifies how quickly and accurately the brain responds to stimuli — relevant for performance and aging.

Cognitive flexibility

Reflects the ability to switch between tasks or mental frameworks.

Reliability

CNS Vital Signs is used in clinical trials, cognitive aging studies, and neurological assessments. It has demonstrated strong test–retest reliability.
Validated in research and clinical settings

Backed by decades of psychometric validation, it is trusted in both academic and practical applications.

Affected by short-term states

Acute stress, poor sleep, or stimulant use can impact results. Best taken under standardized conditions.

Limitations

While powerful, the test is influenced by temporary states and may not pinpoint the cause of cognitive decline.
Sensitive to day-to-day fluctuations

Sleep, mood, and caffeine can affect scores — making consistency in testing conditions important.

Interpretation requires context

Results should be interpreted alongside other diagnostics and lifestyle data for meaningful insights.

Frequency

Suggested cadence

Every 6–12 months if monitoring cognitive change. For high-performance or at-risk individuals, every 3–6 months may be appropriate.

Cost

Typical costs

Prices range from €50–€150 depending on provider and reporting depth. Often bundled with broader neurocognitive assessments.

Availability

Where available

Offered by longevity clinics, functional medicine practitioners, and select neuropsychology platforms (e.g., CNS Vital Signs, Cambridge Brain Sciences).

Preparation

How to prepare

Take the test in a quiet environment, well-rested, and free from stimulants or distractions. Ideally in the morning when cognitive performance peaks.

Interpretation

Results are benchmarked against normative population data and presented as percentiles and domain scores.
Domain scores

Each cognitive function (e.g., memory, attention) receives a separate score, allowing targeted interpretation.

Composite index

A global cognition score summarizes overall performance. Useful for longitudinal tracking.

Alternatives

Cambridge Brain Sciences (CBS)

An alternative computerized cognitive testing platform with similar domain coverage and longitudinal tracking.

Traditional neuropsychological testing

In-depth in-person assessments with a psychologist, offering greater nuance but requiring more time and cost.

FAQ

Is this test suitable for tracking brain aging?

Yes. It’s commonly used to detect early signs of decline and track cognitive changes associated with age, lifestyle, or interventions.

Can I take this test at home?

Yes, most platforms allow remote administration. Ensure you're in a distraction-free environment and follow test instructions closely.