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How is it used?
The MMSE is a series of questions and tests, each of which scores
points if answered correctly. If every answer is correct, a maximum
score of 30 points is possible. The MMSE tests a number of different
mental abilities, including a persons memory, attention and language.
The MMSE is a tool that is used by clinicians such as a GP or a
neuropsychologist (a psychologist who specialises in the brain and its
function) to help them diagnose and assess dementia. It is only one
part of these processes and clinicians will often consider a persons
MMSE score alongside the results of other tests (see factsheet 426,
Diagnosis and assessment).
In general, scores of 27 or above (out of 30) are considered normal.
However, getting a score below this does not always mean that a
person has dementia their mental abilities might be impaired for
another reason or they may have a physical problem such as difficulty
hearing, which makes it harder for them to take the test.
1
Sample questions
The MMSE is made up of a range of different questions and tests.
Below are four sample questions that give an indication of the style of
the MMSE.
1 Orientation to time
What is the date?
2 Registration
Listen carefully. I am going to say three words. You say them back
after I stop. Ready? Here they are... apple [pause], penny [pause],
table [pause]. Now repeat those words back to me.
[Repeat up to 5 times, but score only the first trial.]
3 Naming
What is this? [Point to a pencil or pen.]
4 Reading
Please read this and do what it says. [Show examinee the following
words on the stimulus form: Close your eyes.]
Sample questions reproduced by special permission of the Publisher,
Psychological Assessment Resources, Inc., 16204 North Florida
Avenue, Lutz, Florida 33549, from the Mini Mental State Examination,
by Marshal Folstein and Susan Folstein, Copyright 1975, 1998, 2001
by Mini Mental LLC, Inc. Published 2001 by Psychological Assessment
Resources, Inc. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission
of PAR, Inc. The MMSE can be purchased from PAR, Inc. by calling
(813) 968-3003.
For details of Alzheimers Society services in your area, visit
alzheimers.org.uk/localinfo
For information about a wide range of dementia-related topics, visit
alzheimers.org.uk/factsheets
This publication contains information and general advice. It should not be used
as a substitute for personalised advice from a qualified professional. Alzheimers
Society does not accept any liability arising from its use. We strive to ensure that
the content is accurate and up to date, but information can change over time.
Please refer to our website for the latest version and for full terms and conditions.
Alzheimers Society, 2013. All rights reserved. Except for personal use, no part
of this work may be distributed, reproduced, downloaded, transmitted or stored
in any form without the written permission of Alzheimers Society.
Factsheet 436LP
Last reviewed: January 2012
Next review due: January 2014
Reviewed by: Dr Sebastian Crutch,
Neuropsychologist, Dementia
Research Centre, Institute of
Neurology, UCL, London and Professor
Louise Robinson, Professor of
Primary Care and Ageing, Newcastle
University, Newcastle
This factsheet has also been reviewed
by people affected by dementia.
A list of sources is available on
request.