Joseph R. Anticaglia, MD
Medical Advisory Board
Much press coverage was given to the President of the United States when he passed the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) test in January of 2018 (30/30). This test is an easily administered10 minute screening tool to assist primary care physicians to detect Mild Cognitive Impairment, a clinical state that can progress to Alzheimer’s disease (dementia)…
The test uses 30 questions to measure several parameters such as memory, language and thinking. The results help physicians decide if pre-dementia or dementia might be present and whether further testing is warranted. What follows is the test that was taken by President Donald Trump.
Normal 26 / 30 or above
Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) — scored an average of 22.1
Alzheimer’s disease — scored an average of 16.2
Keep in mind, MoCA is a non-specific screening tool that does not provide the physician with a specific diagnosis. When indicated, further evaluations from a clinical, psychological and imaging standpoint (MRI, PET scan) are utilized to rule out other causes for memory loss and to make the diagnosis.
References
Nasreddone, ZS et al; The Montreal Cognitive Assessment, MoCA; J. Am Geriatr. Society; April, 2005
This article is intended solely as a learning experience. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options.