Validity of the Mattis Dementia Rating Scale for detection of cognitive impairment in the elderly

The validity of the Mattis Dementia Rating Scale (DRS) for detecting neuropsychological impairment was evaluated in 22 elderly patients with mild cognitive impairment and 48 rigorously screened control subjects. A cutoff score was identified that correctly classified 95% of patients and 100% of control subjects. Results of this preliminary study suggest that the DRS may prove useful in screening for mild cognitive impairment in elderly populations. Further validation with a representative elderly sample is needed to establish screening value in primary care or community populations.