MINI COG test for Alzheimer's dementia

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Monday, March 16, 2009

The Mini-Cog Test for Alzheimer's and Dementia

The Mini-Cog is a simple three minute test that is useful in detecting mild cognitive impairment, dementia, or an early stage of Alzheimer's. The research study, included below, showed that the test has a high degree of accuracy (83 percent).

Please note:

• If you decide to try this test and,
  
• you find the results of the test suspicious
• Please don't jump to any conclusion until
• You consult with your personal care physician
• And, schedule a test with a memory specialist.

The Mini-Cog is a simple diagnostic test that can be carried out by an individual. It can be used if you are concerned about mild cognitive impairment, dementia, or Alzheimer's. However, if the results are suspicious, the test should be replicated by a physician or doctor specialist.

There are three parts to the test.

First, name three objects and then ask the person being tested to repeat them back to you (for example, chair, house, apple). If the person cannot repeat the three objects after a few tries (cannot learn them), please consult a physician immediately. If the person can complete this task move on to the following.

Second, ask the person to draw a clock. The clock should include the shape and the numbers on the clock. Pretty much like a simple clock you see on a wall.

Third, ask the person to repeat the words/objects from the first part of the test.

If the person is unable to repeat any of the words, they might be categorized as mildly cognitively impaired or suffering from dementia. The key word so far--might.

If the person can repeat all three words the person is not "probably suffering from dementia".

If the person cannot draw the clock or if it looks abnormal they would fall into the category of "probably" suffering from mild cognitive impairment or dementia.

You should note that many people that cannot past this test might be suffering from some other illness. This is why it is necessary to consult your doctor and a memory specialist.

The person you are testing could be suffering from depression, hypothyroidism, or any number of illnesses that can present as Alzheimer's or dementia. This is why it is necessary to get a complete battery of tests performed by a medical professional prior to any "official" diagnosis.

The article below describes the Mini-Cog (MC), with a Functional Activities Questionnaire (FAQ) and the results of the research study. Please read this carefully.