What is the significance of a score of 28 out of 30 on the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE)?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: March 28, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

From the Guidelines

A score of 28 out of 30 on the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) indicates normal cognitive function. The MMSE is a 30-point screening tool used to assess cognitive impairment, with scores of 24-30 generally considered within the normal range 1. A score of 28 suggests that the person has intact cognitive abilities with only minor errors on the test. This means the individual likely has no significant problems with:

  • Orientation
  • Attention
  • Memory
  • Language
  • Visuospatial skills

According to the guidelines for managing Alzheimer's disease, the MMSE is the brief instrument most commonly used to assess cognitive changes in patients with dementia 1. The test has been translated into many languages and can be used in a variety of cultural settings. However, it has limitations, including not being sensitive in detecting mild dementia and having a "floor effect" late in the course of Alzheimer's disease 1.

No specific treatment is needed for someone with this score, as it does not indicate cognitive impairment or dementia. However, if there are specific concerns about memory or thinking skills despite this normal score, more comprehensive neuropsychological testing might be warranted, as the MMSE is just a screening tool and has limitations in detecting subtle cognitive changes or early stages of dementia, particularly in highly educated individuals who may score normally despite early cognitive decline 1.

References

Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.