Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE)
A test to assess cognitive function in elderly patients, especially for dementia or Alzheimer's.
Assessment Tasks
Enter the score for each task based on the patient's response.
Orientation
Year, season, date, day, month
Ask the patient to name the current year, season, etc.
State/City, Hospital/Clinic, Floor
Ask the patient to name their current location
Registration
Word Recall
Ask patient to repeat three unrelated words (e.g., "apple, table, penny")
Attention & Calculation
Serial 7s
Ask patient to subtract 7 from 100 five times (100, 93, 86, etc.)
Spell WORLD backwards
If unable to do serial 7s, ask them to spell "WORLD" backward
Recall
Word Recall Test
Ask patient to recall the three words from registration task
Language
Naming
Show two common objects (e.g., pen, watch) and ask patient to name them
Repetition
Ask patient to repeat a simple phrase (e.g., "No ifs, ands, or buts")
3-Stage Command
Give a three-step command (e.g., "Take paper, fold it, put it on floor")
Reading
Write "Close your eyes" on a piece of paper and ask patient to read and obey
Writing
Ask the patient to write a sentence of their choice
Visuospatial
Copying a Design
Show a simple design (e.g., two overlapping pentagons) and ask patient to copy it
Total Score
This screening result is not a diagnosis. Discuss concerns or unexpected results with a qualified healthcare professional.
About the MMSE Test
The Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) is a widely used test to assess cognitive function and screen for cognitive impairments, including dementia. It measures abilities in orientation, memory, attention, language, and visuospatial skills (Folstein, Folstein, & McHugh, 1975).
The MMSE was created in 1975 by Dr. Marshall Folstein, Dr. Susan Folstein, and Dr. Paul McHugh. This test was initially developed as a practical, standardized tool for quickly assessing cognitive function in clinical settings, specifically to screen for dementia and monitor changes in cognitive abilities over time.
The MMSE is primarily intended for elderly individuals or those showing signs of cognitive decline. It's useful for anyone experiencing memory issues, confusion, or other cognitive concerns. Healthcare professionals often use it as an initial screening tool.
The MMSE should be administered in a quiet environment, free from distractions. A trained professional asks the patient a series of standardized questions and tasks. The test includes sections such as orientation, memory recall, and following instructions.
The MMSE is important because it helps detect early signs of cognitive impairment, allowing for timely intervention. Early diagnosis and management can improve quality of life and slow the progression of conditions such as Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia.
© 2026 MMSE Assessment Tool. For informational purposes only.
Citation: Folstein, M. F., Folstein, S. E., & McHugh, P. R. (1975). "Mini-mental state". A practical method for grading the cognitive state of patients for the clinician. Journal of psychiatric research, 12(3), 189–198.