Diagnostic tests
Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE)
Brief standardized cognitive screens such as the Mini-Mental State Examination evaluate memory, attention, language and orientation.
What it is
Brief standardized cognitive screens such as the Mini-Mental State Examination evaluate memory, attention, language and orientation. They are a starting point — not a diagnosis — when memory or thinking changes are a concern.
How to prepare
Bring glasses or hearing aids, a medication list and, ideally, a family member who has noticed the changes.
What to expect
A clinician asks a series of questions and simple tasks in a conversation that takes about 10–15 minutes. Results are interpreted together with your history and exam.
This information is educational and does not replace a medical evaluation.