The primary purpose of assessment tools in dementia is to reduce the subjectivity and increase the objectivity of a diagnosis, which helps to differentiate dementia from age-related cognitive change. NICE guidance says that the severity of a patient's dementia should not only be determined by their cognition score, but also by taking a holistic view of their condition. Some of the most commonly used tools include:

The Abbreviated Mental Test Score (AMTS) €“ a commonly used initial assessment to rapidly assess people for the possibility of dementia. It involves asking 10 questions, with each correct answer scoring one point. Scores of seven or eight usually indicate the need for further investigation

The General Practitioner Assessment of Cognition (GPCOG) €“ commonly used in primary care. Requires both the patient and their carer to be present to improve accuracy

The Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) €“ advocated by NICE to assist in dementia assessment and determine whether it is appropriate to prescribe an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor or memantine. The MMSE is used by clinicians along with other tests and clinical signs to diagnose dementia, and help assess its progression and severity. It includes a series of tests, with each correct response scoring a point up to a maximum of 30. The MMSE tests a number of different mental abilities, including memory, attention and language. Generally, scores of 27 or above are considered normal. The MMSE may be less valid if:

• The individual has learning disabilities or other disabilities, such as deafness or blindness
• They have difficulty speaking or communicating, such as after a stroke
• English is not their first language
• They are highly educated or uneducated.