If you are over 65, the last time that were in for an annual exam, you probably were asked to remember three words and say them back. You may also have been asked to draw a clock. If you’re under 65, ask a family member. This exercise is the Mini-Cog, which is a very brief screening test to assess for cognitive decline.
If a patient performs poorly on the Mini-Cog, the doctor or staff should follow up with the more involved test called the Folstein Mini Mental Status Exam. (Click here to download a copy)
Many times people don’t realize that their memory is slipping and thus don’t seek treatment. Therefore the screen is done every year on all patients over 65. A change in mental status could indicate a condition such as a vitamin deficiency, hormonal issue or more worrisome – a neurological condition, such as Alzheimer’s Disease.
While medical science still does not have a real cure for most causes of memory loss, early detection can enable patients to get treatment to slow the process. And the screening exams may lead to discovering other conditions that could be corrected, such as sleep or mental health disorders. Therefore, “failing” the Mini Cog does not necessarily mean doom. It could lead to treatments.
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