How Sharp Is Your Memory?

Snowdon uses a longer version of the following quiz to pick up signs of memory loss. You can use it to test your own memory. If you are concerned about the results, discuss them with your physician.

Verbal Fluency
How many animals can you name in 60 seconds? _____

Word-list Memory
1. Have a friend read the following 10 words aloud:
Leg
Cheese
Tent
Motor
Flower
Stamp
Cup
King
Forest
Menu

2. Try to commit them to memory.

3. Go over the list twice more, each time in a different order. How many can you recall on the third try? _____

Delayed Word Recall Test
Wait five minutes. Now how many words can you recall? _____

Word Recognition
1. Ask your friend to write 20 words on separate index cards — the 10 words from the list above mixed in with ten different words

2. Have your friend show you the cards one at a time

3. How many words can you pick out from the original list? _____

Add up your scores. If the total is less than 29, you may have difficulty with short-term memory. Ask your doctor about doing a more thorough exam.