Validation of the Hebrew Version of the MoCA Test as a Screening Instrument for the Early Detection of Mild Cognitive Impairment in Elderly Individuals

Abstract

Introduction:

The English version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) test has been shown to be reliable in screening for mild cognitive impairment (MCI). However, the sensitivity and specificity of the Hebrew version of this instrument are yet to be determined.

Methods:

The study population consisted of 2 groups of older individuals, 74 patients diagnosed with MCI and 80 patients who were cognitively asymptomatic. Cognitive evaluation included the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Mindstreams computerized cognitive assessment, and the MoCA test.

Results:

The Hebrew version of MoCA distinguished between cognitively asymptomatic older individuals and those with MCI, with a sensitivity of 94.6% and a specificity of 76.3%, using a cutoff of 26/30 points.

Conclusions:

The Hebrew version of the MoCA test is effective for identifying MCI in older patients. As a screening instrument for MCI, its higher sensitivity makes it preferable o the MMSE, which is used extensively in the clinical setting.