Memory Test

This simple memory test may help give you a better idea of whether your memory problems are out of the ordinary or cause for concern. Keep in mind that this is just a simple paper-and-pencil memory test. For a more specific test of your memory, contact your doctor or a psychologist, who can administer a battery of special memory tests.

Simple Memory Test:

1. Remember these words: apple, television, lamb

2. Remember this name and address:

Jane Doe
2745 Broad
Philadelphia, PA

3. Have you had more trouble than usual remembering what you've done for the past few weeks?

4. Has it been harder for you to remember lists?

5. Have you noticed a decline in your ability to calculate in your head, such as figuring out a restaurant tip or making correct change?

6. Have you been forgetting to pay bills?

7. Have you had trouble remembering names?

8. Have you had trouble recognizing people you should know?

9. Have you had a hard time finding the right word you want to use?

10. Have you had trouble remembering how to do simple tasks such as using a microwave or a remote control?

11. Do memory lapses interfere with your functioning at work?

12. Do memory lapses interfere with your functioning at home?

13. Do memory lapses interfere with your functioning in social situations?

14. Name the last three mayors of your town.

15. Name the past five U.S. presidents.

16. What was the main dish you had for dinner the past two nights?

17. What were the last two movies you saw?

18. Write down the three words you were asked to remember at the beginning of the quiz.

19. Write down the name and address you were asked to remember at the beginning of the quiz.


Scoring:

Give yourself 1 point for each "no" answer for questions 3-13 (maximum 11 points)

Give yourself 1 point for each blank you correctly filled in for questions 14-19 (maximum 21 points)


If you scored:

28-32 Congratulations! You have a better-than-average memory.

22-27 Not bad, but you could benefit from some memory exercises.

15-21 Your memory is a bit weak; memory exercises should help you improve your memory.

0-14 You may want to consider getting a professional evaluation.

For further indications of memory problems, check out the warning signs and how to get help on the next page.


This information is solely for informational purposes. IT IS NOT INTENDED TO PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. Neither the Editors of Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., the author nor publisher take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action or application of medication which results from reading or following the information contained in this information. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care provider. Before undertaking any course of treatment, the reader must seek the advice of their physician or other health care provider.