What tasks are included in the “Executive functions” section of the MoCA?

The “Executive functions” section of the MoCA includes tasks that assess higher-level cognitive processes such as planning, organization, and problem-solving. Alternating trail-making and verbal fluency are specifically designed to evaluate these types of functions.

Alternating trail-making requires the individual to connect numbers and letters in a specific sequence, which tests their cognitive flexibility and the ability to shift between tasks. Verbal fluency involves generating words within a specific category or beginning with a certain letter, assessing the individual's verbal problem-solving skills and access to language. Both tasks are indicative of the brain's executive functioning capabilities, which are crucial for effective daily functioning and decision-making.