Questionnaire Analysis

The Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE-30), also known as the Folstein Test, is a 30-point questionnaire developed by psychiatrist Marshal Folstein in 1975. It is widely used in clinical and research settings to measure cognitive impairment. It is also administered to individuals who have completed at least five years of basic education.

Purpose of the Questionnaire

The primary purpose of the MMSE-30 is to assess the severity and progression of cognitive impairment and to monitor changes in cognitive functioning over time. Specifically, it evaluates orientation to time and place, phonemic recognition, immediate memory, attention, delayed word recall, as well as the understanding of written language, visuoconstructive skills, spontaneous writing, and comprehension of complex instructions.

Question Scoring

The questions in this questionnaire are categorized into six areas covering temporal and spatial orientation, immediate and short-term memory, attention, language functions, and visuoconstructive abilities. Responses are scored with 0 (incorrect answer) or 1 (correct answer).

Statistical Analysis

After the questionnaire is completed, a total score is calculated. The maximum possible score is 30 points. Interpretation of the scores is as follows:
28–30: Normal cognitive level
27–25: Mild cognitive impairment
24–20: Mild dementia
19–11: Moderate dementia
10–0: Severe dementia

Reliability and Validity

The MMSE-30 is known for its validity and reliability in diagnosing and tracking Alzheimer’s disease as well as other forms of dementia. Regarding reliability, Cronbach’s alpha ranges between 0.90 and 0.92.

Reference

Folstein, M. F., Folstein, S. E., & McHugh, P. R. (1975). “Mini-mental state”: a practical method for grading the cognitive state of patients for the clinician. Journal of Psychiatric Research, 12(3), 189–198.