Mini mental state exam

From Psy3241

Current revision as of 02:07, 5 May 2008

The Mini Mental State Exam is a tool used to systematically asses mental status. It is based on 11 questions that test five areas of cognitive function. The five sections of the test are divided as follows: orientation, registration, attention and calculation. The maximum score is 30 and a score if 23 and lower indicates cognitive impairment. The test usually 5-10 minutes to administer, making it practical to use repeatedly.

Target Population

The Mini mental state exam is used as a screening tool for cognitive impairment in the older community of hospitalized adults such as nursing homes. The assessment of older adults’ cognitive function is believed to have better results if it is done routinely and thoroughly.

Strenghts and Limitations

The MMSE is an effective instrument to separate patients with cognitive deterioration from those without it. When used repeatedly the instrument is able to measure changes in cognitive status. It is important to note, that the tool is not able to diagnose the case for changes in cognitive function. As well, the instrument relies heavily on verbal responses, such as reading and writing. Consequently, patients that have a hearing or visual impairment may have low literacy when cognitively they might be intact.

References

Kurlowicz, L, & Wallace, M (1999). The Mini Mental Examination (MME). Try this: from the Hartford Institute for Geriatric Nursing, 1, Retrieved April 21, 2008, from http://www.chcr.brown.edu/MMSE.PDF

Mini-Mental State Examination. Psychological Assessment Resources, Inc. Retrieved April 20, 2008 from http://www.minimental.com/