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What is an MMSE and How is It Used in a Guardianship Case in Orlando, Florida?

Have you ever heard the term MMSE? MMSE stands for Mini Mental Status (or State) Exam. The test was originally developed as a simplified cognitive mental health exam for elderly patients who, particularly when cognitively impaired, cooperate only for a short period of time. This test takes only five to ten minutes to administer, whereas other cognitive tests take much longer. 

The participant receives one (1) point for each correct answer and zero (0) for an incorrect answer. The most points you can score on the test is thirty (30) points. The tests check a person’s orientation, short term memory, retention, and recall; as well as language that requires verbal responses and the ability to follow written and verbal instructions. The test measures one’s cognitive status. 

The MMSE does not replace a clinical evaluation. A comprehensive exam requires a physical history with physical examination, a full mental status examination, and laboratory data. The MMSE is a baseline screening function. The person who administers the MMSE can use the score to compare it and see if there is progress or deterioration over time compared with the participant’s previous retakes of the test. Depending on the participant’s score, one determines whether the person has normal cognition, mild dementia, moderate dementia, or severe dementia. 

A court appointed attorney may ask their client the questions on the MMSE to gauge the person’s understanding of the situation of the current guardianship case proceeding. It may help the attorney better understand what kind of help the alleged incapacitated person may need. The attorney will be presented with three examining committee reports regarding the alleged incapacitated person’s competency. 

However, the attorney must zealously represent what the client wishes. This allows the attorney to discuss with the alleged incapacitated person things that can be done and changes made in the alleged incapacitated person’s house so they may safely remain at their own home. An example of this may be physical changes to the house to accommodate the alleged incapacitated person’s physical needs and the acquisition of a caregiver to assist him/her. Thereby, the alleged incapacitated person does not have to enter an assisted living facility or skilled nursing home. The alleged incapacitated person retains their dignity and remains in a safe environment. 

If you have more questions regarding a Marital and Family Law matter, you may call Ann Marie Giordano Gilden at Ann Marie Giordano Gilden, P.A. at 407-732-7620 and set an initial consultation. You may also visit my website at: AnnMarieGildenLaw.com; and check me out on these other sites: Ann Marie Giordano Gilden on Facebook; Ann Marie (Giordano) Gilden on LinkedIn; and Ann Marie Giordano Gilden on AVVO and Lawyers.com. 

This article is for informational purposes only, and it does not form an attorney client privilege.