Mini mental state examination
The MMSE test includes simple questions and problems in a number of areas: the time and place of the test, repeating lists of words, arithmetic such as the serial sevens, language use and comprehension, and basic motor skills. For example, one question, derived from the older Bender-Gestalt Test, asks to copy a drawing of two pentagons.
A version of the MMSE questionnaire can be found on the British Columbia Ministry of Health website.
Although consistent application of identical questions increases the reliability of comparisons made using the scale, the test can be customized (for example, for use on patients that are blind or partially immobilized. Also, some have questioned the use of the test on the deaf.[14] However, the number of points assigned per category is usually consistent:
Category Possible points Description
Orientation to time 5 From broadest to most narrow. Orientation to time has been correlated with future decline.
Orientation to place 5 From broadest to most narrow. This is sometimes narrowed down to streets,[16] and sometimes to floor.
Registration 3 Repeating named prompts
Attention and calculation 5 Serial sevens, or spelling “world” backwards[18] It has been suggested that serial sevens may be more appropriate in a population where English is not the first language.[
Recall 3 Registration recall
Language 2 Naming a pencil and a watch
Repetition 1 Speaking back a phrase
Complex commands 6 Varies. Can involve drawing figure shown.