SAGE Test Questions and Answers for Alzheimer’s Disease
If you’re wondering what kind of questions appear on the SAGE test for Alzheimer’s and what the answers look like, here’s the short answer: the SAGE test includes simple tasks that check how your brain handles things like memory, problem-solving, and language. You don’t need medical knowledge to take it, and it can help catch early signs of Alzheimer’s or other memory problems.
In this post, I’ll walk you through what to expect from the SAGE test—what kind of questions are asked, why they matter, and how to understand the answers.
What Is the SAGE Test?
The SAGE test stands for Self-Administered Gerocognitive Examination.
It’s a short paper-and-pencil test made by Ohio State University. It usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes to finish and can help spot early signs of dementia or memory loss.
You can do it at home, but the results should always be shown to a doctor for proper interpretation. The test isn’t meant to give a diagnosis on its own—it’s just a tool that tells you if you need further testing.
Why Is It Used for Alzheimer’s?
Alzheimer’s disease affects how you think, remember, speak, and solve problems.
The SAGE test is designed to catch the early signs of these problems. It’s especially helpful because early Alzheimer’s can be very subtle—someone might forget names or repeat questions, but still seem mostly fine.
Taking the SAGE test can show if something is off before it becomes serious.
How Many Questions Are There?
There are four different versions of the SAGE test, but each version has about 12 tasks. The versions are slightly different so you can retake the test over time without memorizing the answers.
The test has a maximum score of 22 points. A score of 17 or above is considered normal. Anything below that might suggest mild thinking or memory issues.
What Kinds of Questions Are on the SAGE Test?
Let me break it down by type of task. These are the main categories:
1. Orientation Questions
Example:
- What is today’s date?
- What is the name of this place?
Why it matters: People with memory issues often forget dates, time, or where they are. These questions test basic awareness.
2. Language and Naming
Example:
- Name 12 animals in 30 seconds.
- What do you call the item you write with?
Why it matters: Alzheimer’s can make it harder to find the right word or remember common names.
3. Memory Tasks
Example:
- Remember and write down these three words: “apple, table, penny.”
(Later in the test, you’ll be asked to recall them.)
Why it matters: Trouble with short-term memory is one of the earliest signs of Alzheimer’s.
More Question Examples with Answers
Here are a few sample tasks and what a “correct” answer looks like:
Task: Clock Drawing
Question: Draw a clock that shows 10 minutes past 11.
Answer: You should draw a circle, place numbers in the correct spots (12, 3, 6, 9), and draw hands pointing to 11 and 2.
Why it matters: This tests visual-spatial skills and whether your brain can follow multi-step instructions.
Task: Calculation
Question: Subtract 7 from 100, and keep subtracting 7 from each answer.
Answer:
- 100
- 93
- 86
- 79
- 72
- (and so on)
Why it matters: This checks your attention and math ability, which can slip in early Alzheimer’s.
Task: Problem Solving
Question: If you have two apples and give one away, how many do you have left?
Answer: One.
Why it matters: Alzheimer’s can affect how people solve even simple problems.
Task: Similarities
Question: How are a train and a bicycle alike?
Answer: Both are modes of transportation.
Why it matters: This checks abstract thinking, which often declines with dementia.
What Happens After the Test?
Once you complete the test, your score gets added up. The maximum is 22 points.
Here’s how the scores are often interpreted:
| Score | What It Means |
|---|---|
| 22-17 | Normal range |
| 16-15 | Possible mild cognitive decline |
| 14 or below | Stronger signs of memory issues |
But don’t panic over the number. Only a doctor can explain what the score means for you. Other things like stress, sleep problems, or medications can also affect your thinking.
Should You Try the SAGE Test at Home?
Yes, if:
- You’ve noticed memory changes in yourself or someone you care about.
- You want a baseline score to track over time.
- You’re curious but not ready to see a doctor yet.
But remember, it’s not a replacement for a real medical exam. It’s just a conversation starter between you and your doctor.
Tips Before Taking the SAGE Test
- Choose a quiet space with no distractions.
- Use a pen and paper—no calculators or help.
- Take your time but don’t pause and come back later.
- Don’t overthink the answers—go with your gut.
The test is meant to be simple for someone with a healthy brain but challenging for someone with early cognitive issues.
Can You Study for It?
Not really.
The whole point of the SAGE test is to check how your brain works naturally. Studying the questions or answers might change the score, but it won’t give you helpful information.
Instead of “practicing” for the test, it’s better to focus on brain health in general: good sleep, exercise, diet, and staying mentally active.
What If You Score Low?
If you or a loved one scores below 17, it’s time to talk to a doctor.
It doesn’t always mean Alzheimer’s. There are many other causes of memory loss:
- Stress
- Vitamin B12 deficiency
- Thyroid issues
- Depression
- Side effects of medication
A doctor might order more detailed tests like an MRI or blood work to figure out what’s going on.
SAGE Test vs. Other Alzheimer’s Tests
There are other screening tests like:
- MoCA (Montreal Cognitive Assessment)
- MMSE (Mini-Mental State Exam)
These are often used in clinics. The SAGE test is just easier to use at home without medical help.
It’s also more thorough than some quick screeners because it looks at several thinking areas—not just memory.
Download the SAGE Test (PDF)
You can get the official SAGE test directly from Ohio State University’s Wexner Medical Center. They provide four different versions, so you can take the test more than once without memorizing the answers.
Here’s the working link to download the test:
- Download the SAGE Test (All Forms) – Choose from Forms 1 to 4 after agreeing to the terms.
If you just want to start right away, here’s one version ready to print:
Be sure to print the test and fill it out with a pen. Don’t try to complete it on your computer or phone. Once you’re done, share your results with a doctor for proper interpretation.
Final Thoughts
The SAGE test can be a simple and powerful first step if you’re worried about memory loss or early signs of Alzheimer’s.
It’s not scary. It doesn’t hurt. And it can give you peace of mind—or help you catch something early when it’s easier to manage.
If you’re thinking about taking it, just print out a version from a trusted source (like Ohio State’s website), sit down in a quiet room, and try it.
And no matter what the results are, you’re not alone. There’s help, support, and real steps you can take after the test.
