Folstein Normative Data and Cutoff Scores 3

Question 1

The reported sensitivity of the MMSE for detecting Alzheimer's disease at a standard cutoff is approximately:

Accepted Answer

85–90%

Answer

Meta-analyses report MMSE sensitivity for Alzheimer's detection at approximately 85–90% when using the standard ≤23 cutoff in clinical samples.

Question 2

The specificity of the MMSE at a cutoff of 23/24 is generally reported at approximately:

Accepted Answer

75–82%

Answer

Specificity at the standard cutoff is typically cited around 75–82%, meaning a meaningful proportion of cognitively healthy individuals may score below the threshold.

Question 3

A major limitation of the MMSE in terms of diagnostic sensitivity is its:

Accepted Answer

Poor sensitivity for detecting mild cognitive impairment (MCI)

Answer

The MMSE has poor sensitivity for mild cognitive impairment because its tasks are not challenging enough to reveal the subtle deficits characteristic of MCI.

Question 4

The original MMSE was developed and normed using which sample in the Folstein et al. (1975) study?

Accepted Answer

Both psychiatric inpatients and community residents

Answer

The 1975 Folstein study included psychiatric inpatients with various diagnoses as well as normal community volunteers, establishing the initial normative comparisons.

Question 5

When compared to comprehensive neuropsychological test batteries, the MMSE is best characterized as:

Accepted Answer

A brief screening tool with lower diagnostic precision than full batteries

Answer

The MMSE is a brief screening instrument and does not replace comprehensive neuropsychological testing; it trades thoroughness for brevity and ease of administration.

Folstein - Folstein Mini Mental State Exam Practice Test

Folstein - Folstein Mini Mental State Exam Practice Test

Folstein Normative Data and Cutoff Scores 3