What might be an indicator of cognitive processing issues during the MoCA Music Practice Test?

Difficulty maintaining tempo can indeed be an indicator of cognitive processing issues during the MoCA Music Practice Test. Tempo requires not only a physical ability to keep time but also cognitive functions such as concentration, attention, and memory. Struggling to maintain a consistent tempo may suggest challenges in the individual's ability to process and respond to rhythmic cues, which can be linked to broader cognitive difficulties.

In contrast, the other options involve skills that may not necessarily reflect cognitive processing capabilities directly. Reading music notation involves visual and theoretical understanding, knowledge of popular music pertains more to cultural exposure than cognitive function, and recognizing instruments generally relates to memory and experience rather than cognitive processing skills. Therefore, difficulty maintaining tempo is a more direct reflection of cognitive processing abilities.