The Mini-Mental examination can be used to assess a person's mental state. It is intended to be given quickly (usually less than 10 minutes) and easily, which is useful in patients with only limited spans of attention or cooperation. It can be used over time to assess changes in status with recovery, further deterioration, or treatment interventions.
Limitations (whence termed "mini"):
(1) The test only concentrates on cognitive aspects of mental functions.
(2) The test does not concern mood, abnormal mental experiences or the form of thinking.
Instructions:
(1) Take as much time as needed.
(2) Patients with impaired vision or disabilities may require allowances for physical debilities.
Parameters:
(1) orientation
(2) registration
(3) attention and calculation
(4) recall
(5) language comprehension
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Parameters
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Description
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Total Points
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orientation
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10 questions on person, place and time
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10 (1 point each)
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registration
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3 items learned for later recall
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3 (1 point each)
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attention and calculation
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counting from 7 to 35 by 7's (7, 14, 21, 28, 35)
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5 (1 point each)
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recall of items from registration
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recall of the 3 items from registration
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3 (1 point each)
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language comprehension
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6 comprehension questions and one 3-part instruction
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9 (1 point each)
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mini-mental score =
= (orientation points) + (registration points) + (attention and calculation points) + (recall points) + (language points)
Interpretation:
• minimum score: 0
• maximum score: 30
• mean score for normal individuals: 27.6
• mean score in dementia: 9.7
• Further evaluation is warranted in the elderly if the score is < 24.
Limitations:
• A person unfamiliar with the local language may not understand the questions.
