Biomarker

MoCA (Montreal Cognitive Assessment)

Last updated Sat May 30 2026 00:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Observational— Validated screening tool; not diagnostic

What it tests

MoCA briefly samples eight cognitive domains. It is more sensitive than the older MMSE (Mini-Mental State Examination) for detecting mild cognitive impairment, which is the actionable pre-dementia stage.

Score interpretation

26–30: normal range.
18–25: mild cognitive impairment likely.
10–17: moderate cognitive impairment.
<10: severe.

Add 1 point for education ≤12 years (the validated correction).

Use cases

Baseline cognitive assessment in midlife.
Screening symptomatic patients.
Serial tracking after concussion / stroke.
Pre-operative assessment in elderly.
Tracking response to dementia interventions.

Caveats

Not diagnostic on its own; abnormal screen leads to further evaluation.
Education, language, and cultural factors affect scores.
Practice effects on serial testing — alternate versions exist.
Free for clinical use after MoCA-certified training; commercial versions exist.

References

Nasreddine, Z. S. et al. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment, MoCA: a brief screening tool for mild cognitive impairment. J. Am. Geriatr. Soc. 53, 695–699 (2005).