To evaluate the utility of 10 warning signs questionnaire in assessment of cognitive function among elderly people

INTRODUCTION: Routine screening of high-risk elderly people for early cognitive impairment using mini-mental state examination (MMSE) and its modifications may be constrained by demographic and other variables. Warning signs (as reported by family/caregivers) may be a useful alternative. The present data analysis was carried out with the aim to identify the role of 10 warning signs screen as an alternative tool for screening for cognitive impairment among elderly. MATERIALS AND METHODS: For the purpose of this analysis (correlation), data available with us from a study conducted on the elderly population (60 years and above) from selected geographical areas (Migrant, Urban, Rural, and Tribal) of Himachal Pradesh was used. RESULTS: A high statistically significant was found between scores on 10 warning signs screen and Hindi mental state examination/Bharmouri mental state examination (modifications of MMSE). CONCLUSIONS: Ten warning signs screen can be an important screening total for assessment of cognitive impairment in the elderly Indians.