Confusion ratings and abbreviated mental test performance: a comparison

Ninety-nine residents, 10% of the total population of elderly in Part III accommodation in Newcastle upon Tyne, were examined for the presence of psychiatric disorder, tested for cognitive impairment, and rated for the presence of confusion. Those allocated a diagnosis of dementia were most impaired and confused, and those living in specialist homes for the mentally infirm were more impaired than other residents. Confusion ratings, which proved very simple and quick to perform, correlated highly with the results of testing for the presence of cognitive impairment--a slightly more laborious and less universally applicable procedure. The Confusion Rating therefore offers a reliable and easy method for identifying the prevalence of dementia among residents of institutions.