COGNITIVE
TESTING

To ensure that government officials and appointees possess the necessary cognitive capacity to effectively perform their duties while respecting individual privacy and maintaining public trust. I support testing for everyone over the age of 65.
Mandatory Cognitive Assessments
- Implement mandatory cognitive assessments for all elected officials and high-level appointees, starting at 65 or upon taking office.
- The assessments should be designed to evaluate critical cognitive functions such as memory, executive function, and decision-making skills.
Standards & Framework
- Establish clear standards and guidelines for the cognitive assessments to ensure they are valid, reliable, and free from biases.
- Use assessments developed and administered by qualified professionals to maintain high standards of accuracy and fairness.
Privacy & Confidentiality
- Protect the privacy of individuals undergoing cognitive testing by ensuring that results are confidential and only accessible to authorized personnel.
- Provide for secure storage and handling of assessment data to prevent unauthorized access.
Transparency & Accountability
- Develop a transparent process for reporting and addressing instances where cognitive assessments reveal potential concerns.
- Create a protocol for follow-up evaluations and interventions, if necessary, to address any identified issues.
Appeal & Support Mechanisms
- Establish an appeals process for individuals who may dispute cognitive test results or seek additional evaluation.
- Provide support and resources for officials who may need assistance in addressing cognitive challenges, including access to professional guidance and accommodations.
Periodic Reviews & Updates
- Regularly review and update cognitive testing policies to reflect advances in psychological research and best practices.
- Solicit feedback from stakeholders, including cognitive health professionals and civil liberties organizations, to continuously improve the policy.
Ethical Considerations
- Ensure that cognitive testing policies are implemented in a manner that respects individual dignity and avoids any form of discrimination or stigmatization.
- Balance the need for cognitive competence with respect for personal autonomy and human rights.
Implementation
- Collaborate with experts in cognitive science, psychology, and ethics to design and refine the assessment process.
- Provide training for officials and appointees on the importance of cognitive health and the procedures for cognitive testing.
- Ensure that the policy is communicated clearly to the public and stakeholders to maintain transparency and build trust.