Donald Trump Confuses Dementia Screening for ‘Very Hard’ IQ Test as He Brags About Results

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has again drawn widespread attention after reportedly boasting about his performance on a standard cognitive screening, which he appeared to mistake for a challenging IQ test. The remarks came during a televised conversation in which Trump claimed the assessment proved his “very high intelligence” and “mental sharpness,” despite the test’s actual purpose being far more basic.

The screening in question is commonly used by physicians to evaluate memory, orientation, and basic cognitive function—tools designed to identify signs of cognitive decline or dementia. Medical experts have repeatedly noted that such tests are not IQ exams, nor are they intended to measure advanced reasoning or intellectual capability.

Trump, however, described the test as “very hard,” citing tasks such as recalling simple words, identifying animals, and drawing basic shapes. His confident retelling quickly circulated online, prompting a mix of mockery, confusion, and concern from commentators.

Critics argued that the misunderstanding undermines Trump’s credibility while raising questions about how he interprets professional evaluations. Some pointed out that conflating a cognitive screening with an intelligence test is a fundamental error, especially for someone in or seeking national leadership.

Supporters of the former president brushed off the criticism, insisting that Trump’s point was simply that he performed well and remains mentally fit. They argued that the backlash is politically motivated and part of a broader pattern of media hostility.

Medical professionals, meanwhile, weighed in to clarify the nature of the test. Several noted that the exam is designed so that healthy adults typically score well, meaning high performance is expected—not exceptional. As one neurologist explained in public commentary, “These tests are not indicators of genius. They are tools for detecting impairment.”

The incident has revived longstanding debates about age, cognitive health, and the expectations placed on political figures. As the election cycle continues, Trump’s remarks are likely to remain a talking point for both critics and supporters, illustrating how even routine medical assessments can become fuel for political controversy.