This study examined the discriminant validity of the Multi-focus Assessment Scale (MAS). The MAS was administered to three groups of older adults varying in ability to live independently: Extended Care in-patients; Assessment Clinic out-patients; and independently functioning elderly. Analysis of variance showed strong group differences on all of the scales. Discriminant function analysis indicated that the MAS variables predicted group membership with a high degree of accuracy. Replications using random samples indicated the accuracy rates were stable. It was argued that cases of misclassification were largely due to overlap between subgroups of Extended Care and Assessment Clinic patients in terms of their capacity to engage in independent functioning. Also addressed in this study was the identification of variables on the MAS critical to independent functioning. The results indicated that there was a general lowering of functioning rather than specific patterns of preserved strengths or deficits. This was consistent with the presence of a general factor. The need for additional normative data for the MAS was discussed.