What is the Mini-Cog test?
Mini-Cog is a cognitive screening test developed in 2000 by Dr Soo Borson at the University of Washington. It combines two classic components from neuropsychological evaluation: memorising 3 words (tests episodic memory) and drawing a clock (tests executive function, planning, and visuospatial perception).
Because of its simplicity and short duration (~3 minutes), it is recommended for routine screening in general practice. It has a sensitivity of 76–99% and specificity of 89–93% for detecting cognitive decline (PMC 2010 validation). It does NOT replace a full neuropsychological evaluation, but it is a good starting point.
How is the score interpreted?
- 5/5: normal result — low risk of cognitive decline at this time.
- 3-4/5: grey zone — repeat after 1–2 weeks; if it persists, discuss with your GP.
- 0-2/5: result warranting clinical investigation. Not a diagnosis — only an indicator to discuss with a doctor.
Frequently asked questions
▶Who developed the Mini-Cog test?
The Mini-Cog test was developed in 2000 by Dr Soo Borson, Professor of Geriatric Psychiatry at the University of Washington. Dr Borson published the methodology in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry — today it is one of the most widely used cognitive screening tests in the world, recommended by the US Preventive Services Task Force and NHS UK.
▶How is the score calculated?
Word recall: 1 point for each word correctly recalled (maximum 3 points). Clock drawing: 0 or 2 points (all-or-nothing — correct clock = 2, incorrect clock = 0). Total: maximum 5 points. The standard cut-off for dementia risk is 0–2 (sensitivity approximately 76%, specificity approximately 89%). A score of 3–5 is considered normal in most studies.
▶Can I do the Mini-Cog at home with an elderly parent?
Yes, as an informal tool. For genuine clinical screening, it should be administered by a doctor — there are nuances (education, mother tongue, depression, fatigue) that can influence the result. Using it at home, repeated periodically (2–3 times per year), can identify a downward trend worth discussing with a GP or neurologist.
▶Why does the Hermina version not draw a real clock?
Free-drawing on screen with a mouse or touchscreen is very difficult for older adults (especially those with tremor or arthritis) and introduces substantial noise into the result. Our version replaces the drawing with a structured alternative — which reduces clinical sensitivity but increases usefulness for self-assessment. For certified clinical evaluation, the paper-and-doctor version remains the standard.
▶Who is Hermina?
Hermina is the SeniorHelp AI assistant — a calm conversational persona that guides the game. She is not a doctor and cannot diagnose. Your responses remain anonymous on this device (if you want a saved history, create a free account).