Validation of a short Orientation-Memory-Concentration Test of cognitive impairment

Am J Psychiatry. 1983 Jun;140(6):734-9. doi: 10.1176/ajp.140.6.734.

Abstract

A 6-item Orientation-Memory-Concentration Test has been validated as a measure of cognitive impairment. This test predicted the scores on a validated 26-item mental status questionnaire of two patient groups in a skilled nursing home, patients in a health-related facility, and in a senior citizens' center. There was a positive correlation between scores on the 6-item test and plaque counts obtained from the cerebral cortex of 38 subjects at autopsy. This test, which is easily administered by a nonphysician, has been shown to discriminate among mild, moderate, and severe cognitive deficits.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Attention
  • Cognition Disorders / diagnosis*
  • Cognition Disorders / psychology
  • Dementia / diagnosis
  • Dementia / psychology
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Memory
  • Mental Status Schedule*
  • Mood Disorders / diagnosis
  • Mood Disorders / psychology
  • Orientation
  • Psychiatric Status Rating Scales*
  • Psychometrics