Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) refers to diminished cognitive functioning in later age. It is characterized by cognitive functioning in between average cognitive functioning and a decreased level of functioning such as the cognition seen in people with dementia. MCI affects approximately 15-20% of adults ages 60 years and older. People with this condition may later develop dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. While many people experience the symptoms of MCI, many do not understand what mild cognitive impairment actually is. On this page, we’ll explore what the condition is, and how it may be addressed.
Mild cognitive impairment is a disorder characterized by subtle impairments in cognitive functioning. It is particularly common to experience mild impairments in the area of memory. People with MCI may struggle with remembering appointments or social activities, have slight aphasia symptoms, visual impairments, and/or have minor difficulties with visual-spatial skills. Other than minor difficulties, they can make decisions, navigate through their daily lives, and problem-solve without issue.
MCI has a variety of causes. Some causes may be a family history of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, vascular disease, or having experienced a brain injury early in life. Isolation may also cause individuals to develop MCI, as the person is not stimulating their cognition by engaging with others. High stress may also lead to MCI, as stress impacts the brain and cognitive functions. Researchers are trying to pinpoint exactly what causes this condition, but it appears that MCI is caused by a variety of risk factors that include biological, psychological, and environmental variables.
There isn’t a singular cause, however researchers believe that certain disorders or risk factors contribute to the onset of MCI.
It can indicate the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease, so can have the same causes. For example, aging and strokes that reduce the flow of blood throughout the brain may contribute to the condition.
There is also a gene called APOE e4, which has been linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
Other risk factors include:
Symptoms of MCI can vary between individuals. Just as all of us have different brains, the condition may present itself in different ways.
Some of the common symptoms of MCI include:
Mild cognitive impairment is often assessed by a neuropsychologist or neurologist. A neuropsychologist will evaluate to determine how well a person is cognitively functioning compared to other individuals within their age group. A neurologist may order imaging of a person’s brain to look for structural abnormalities or the presence of plaques such as those seen in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. Depending on the diagnosis, a person with MCI may be referred to therapeutic services or prescribed medications.
Treatment may include a combination of medication or other non-pharmacologic therapies. People with the condition may work with a psychologist, speech therapist, or occupational therapist. These clinicians can help the individual work on cognitive skills such as memory, language, or applied functioning skills. Individuals may perform cognitive exercises on a digital cognitive therapy tool or by working on cognitive worksheets provided by a clinician. Professionals may prescribe an aerobic exercise regimen or advise a nutrition regimen for the individual. These may help to reduce the progression of MCI and maintain brain health.
Generally healthy lifestyle choices may help aging individuals to maintain their brain health and feel better both mentally and physically. While it is not always possible to reverse MCI, feeling better can have clear positive outcomes. Some methods for taking care of brain health include:
Mild cognitive impairment is a disorder characterized by the experience of diminished cognitive functioning. It is not as severe of an impairment as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. However, individuals with MCI may not function on the same level as many of their peers. People with mild cognitive impairment are often over 60 years old, but it does not affect all individuals in the same way. Some will only have diminished memory capacities while others may have a slight cognitive impairment in areas of language, visual abilities, and visual-spatial skills. Clinical providers who diagnose mild cognitive impairment include neuropsychologists, neurologists, psychiatrists, and psychologists. If a person is diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment, they may be treated with medication, cognitive remediation therapy, or an exercise and diet regimen.
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