A/Prof Fiona Kumfor (USYD)

Abstract

Historically, neuropsychologists have focused on examining traditional cognitive domains such as attention, memory and visuospatial ability. However, people with some neurological conditions can perform well on traditional neuropsychological tests, despite having difficulties in everyday life. This is particularly the case in frontotemporal dementia, where the earliest changes are in behaviour and personality. In this talk, I will discuss the potential role of tests of social cognition in improving the diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia. I will also outline how social cognition impairment manifests in everyday life. Finally, I will discuss how this work might be applied in other neurological conditions which are also characterised by changes in behaviour and personality.

Bio

Fiona Kumfor is an Associate Professor in the School of Psychology, a NHMRC Career Development Fellow and a Clinical Neuropsychologist. Her work focuses on improving the diagnosis, management and quality of life of people living with neurological conditions, especially younger-onset dementia. She has published >90 papers and has received >$5.2M in funding. She is currently member-at-large for the International Neuropsychological Society and Vice-President of the Australasian Society for Social and Affective Neuroscience.