A minimally conscious state is a condition in which a person has some level of awareness and consciousness, but is significantly impaired. Individuals in a minimally conscious state may exhibit inconsistent and limited responses to stimuli, such as purposeful movements or vocalizations. They may also show some level of arousal, but are not able to consistently communicate or interact with their environment. It is a distinct state from being in a coma or being in a vegetative state, as individuals in a minimally conscious state have some level of awareness and are capable of some level of intentional behavior. Treatment and rehabilitation efforts may be focused on helping individuals in a minimally conscious state regain higher levels of functioning and communication abilities.
