MoCA
A comprehensive screening tool for mild cognitive impairment
Education Level Assessment
Years of formal education
Visuospatial/Executive
Tests visual and executive functioning. Involves copying a cube, drawing a clock (including the contour, numbers, and hands set to 10 past 11). One point is given for each correct element.
Naming
Tests ability to name objects. Show the patient pictures of a Lion, Rhinoceros, and Camel. One point is given for each correct naming.
Memory
Tests delayed recall. Read the words "Face, Velvet, Church, Daisy, Red" aloud, and ask the patient to repeat them immediately (not scored). After 5 minutes, ask the patient to recall the words without prompts.
Attention
Tests attention. Includes forward digit span, backward digit span, letter tapping, and serial subtraction of 7s starting from 100.
Language
Tests sentence repetition and fluency. Ask the patient to repeat complex sentences exactly as stated and list words starting with "F" in one minute.
Abstraction
Tests abstract reasoning. Ask the patient to explain similarities between pairs of items (e.g., "Train & Bicycle", "Watch & Ruler").
Delayed Recall
Tests ability to recall previously mentioned words without cues after a 5-minute delay.
Orientation
Tests orientation to time and place. Questions about date, month, year, day, place, and city.
Total Score
0/30
26-30
Normal
18-25
Mild Impairment
<18
Significant
Important Note
This assessment is a screening tool and should not replace comprehensive clinical evaluation. Results should be interpreted in conjunction with other clinical findings and patient history.
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