Convergent and predictive validity of the Mini MoCA and considerations for use among older adults

Abstract

The Mini MoCA is a cognitive screening instrument designed for quick administration that can be completed via telephone. The Mini MoCA has not received the same level of research attention as the original MoCA, and no articles have explored its validity and feasibility of use with older adults using the officially published administration/scoring protocol. This study examined the convergent and predictive validity of the Mini MoCA among community-dwelling older adults (N = 68, M age=74.5 years) and identified considerations for use as a telephone cognitive screener. Correlations examined the Mini MoCA’s convergent validity with a measure of general cognitive functioning (RBANS). A significant positive correlation was found (r = .34), such that higher Mini MoCA scores were associated with higher overall scores on the RBANS. Additionally, the Mini MoCA was uncorrelated with measures of problem-solving ability and inhibition (M-WCST, D-KEFS Color-Word Interference Test) providing evidence for discriminant validity. Multiple regression analyses revealed total Mini MoCA scores predicted RBANS total scores when accounting for demographic variables. Overall, the current study provides preliminary support for the Mini MoCA as a valid screening measure of general cognitive functioning among older adults. However, several barriers to valid administration of the Mini MoCA arose that warrant attention.

Keywords

• Cognition
• Aging
• Cognitive screening
• Assessment
• Telephone assessment