Cognitive Testing
Reviewed
Also called: cognitive assessment, cognitive screening, Montreal Cognitive Assessment, MoCA test, Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE), Mini-Cog
Cognitive testing checks for problems with certain brain functions called “cognition.”
Specimen: none
Why this test may be ordered
- To check for problems with thinking, learning, remembering, judgment, or language.
- To help decide whether more testing is needed to find the cause of cognitive impairment.
Preparation and collection
You don't need any special preparations for a cognitive test.
There are different types of cognitive tests. They all involve answering questions and usually doing some simple tasks.
There is no risk to having cognitive testing.
Understanding results
Your cognitive test result will be a score.
- Normal score: Your cognitive test result will be a score. If your test score is normal, you could still have some cognitive impairment that the test may not show. Limitation: There are many different tests that check for cognitive impairment. Next step: If you or your family are concerned about your brain function, but your test results were normal, talk with your provider about having another type of cognitive test.
- Lower than normal score: If your score is lower than normal, it usually means you have some level of cognitive impairment. Limitation: But your provider can't make a diagnosis on these test results alone. Next step: Depending on your score, your provider may have you see a neurologist (a doctor who specializes in problems with the brain and nervous system).
- A normal score does not rule out cognitive impairment. Some people with cognitive problems may score within the normal range.
- A lower-than-normal score indicates a higher likelihood of cognitive impairment but does not diagnose a specific cause. Further testing is needed to determine the underlying condition.
What to do next
If you have questions or are concerned about your results, talk with your provider. But it's important to follow up with your provider to discuss the test results and any other tests you may need to properly diagnose your condition.
- Which cognitive test will I take, and how long will it take?
- What could be causing my memory or thinking problems?
- Do I need other tests to check for treatable conditions?
- Should I see a neurologist?
Evidence source
Source: U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus). Practices and reference ranges may differ in your country.