Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA)
30-point cognitive screening instrument for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia. Assesses visuospatial, naming, memory, attention, language, abstraction, and orientation. Score <26 = cognitive impairment. +1 point if ≤12 years education.
Score interpretation
MoCA ≥26 — normal cognitive performance
→ No specific cognitive intervention required; reassess if concerns arise clinically; repeat annually if risk factors for dementia present
MoCA 18–25 — possible MCI; below normal threshold
→ Full cognitive assessment; neuropsychological evaluation; MRI brain; consider memory clinic referral; check reversible causes (thyroid, B12, folate, glucose); lifestyle counselling; acetylcholinesterase inhibitor if MCI progresses to dementia
MoCA <18 — likely dementia; significant cognitive impairment
→ Urgent memory clinic or geriatrics referral; full dementia workup (bloods, neuroimaging, neuropsychology); assess capacity, driving, safety at home; consider acetylcholinesterase inhibitor or memantine; carer assessment; safeguarding
Interpretation bands for the MoCA. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
- Nasreddine ZS et al. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment, MoCA: A Brief Screening Tool For Mild Cognitive Impairment. J Am Geriatr Soc. 2005;53(4):695–699.
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
- Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) · Cognitive Assessment
- Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) · Cognitive Assessment
- MoCA — Montreal Cognitive Assessment · Cognitive Assessment
- Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) · Cognitive Assessment
- 6-Item Cognitive Impairment Test (6CIT) · Cognitive Assessment
- 6CIT — 6-Item Cognitive Impairment Test · Cognitive Assessment
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Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.