Mini-Cog Calculator

Mini-Cog Calculator for Geriatrics. A score of 2 raises concern but is not a dementia diagnosis. A score of 3 crosses a screening boundary, not a definitive disease boundary.

For shared guidance on choosing a tool and documenting results, read the clinical calculator workflow.

How this calculator works

Developer guidance distinguishes totals 0-2 from 3-5, while explicitly warning that a higher score does not exclude cognitive impairment: https://mini-cog.com/scoring-the-mini-cog/.

When to use this calculator

Discuss a completed screen and the need for follow-up. This page does not display tasks, instructions, images or a scoring worksheet.

Inputs used

  • Completed integer Mini-Cog total, 0-5
  • Official assessment context and current concerns

Clinical interpretation

A score of 2 raises concern but is not a dementia diagnosis. A score of 3 crosses a screening boundary, not a definitive disease boundary.

Worked example

A person has an official total of 4 but a family member reports a persistent decline in day-to-day function. The result is in the lower-likelihood dementia screening range, yet the concern still warrants assessment. The 4 is not an 80% probability of normal cognition.

Limitations and safety notes

The cause and course of cognitive symptoms require assessment beyond a brief screen. Acute change needs clinical attention, not reassurance from a total. No permissions to reproduce or adapt the instrument are implied.

Frequently asked questions

Can a normal-looking result close the assessment?

Not when symptoms or concerns persist. The official guidance specifically recommends follow-up despite a higher score in that situation.

References

  • Mini-Cog developer scoring and interpretation guidance. https://mini-cog.com/scoring-the-mini-cog/

Editorial review and citation methodology

Maintained by the Quick Medical Calculator Editorial Team. Content record date: September 9, 2026. A content date is not evidence of independent clinical review. Individual clinical sign-off is not recorded on this page.

  • Prefer original validation studies for scoring systems and prediction tools.
  • Use current specialty society guidance, transplant allocation policy, public health guidance, or regulator resources when they govern clinical use.
  • Include limitations and safety notes when a calculator is population-specific, context-dependent, or unsuitable as a standalone decision tool.

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