Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) Overview

FACTS
- There is a noticeable but mild decline in memory or thinking skills.
- The changes are noticeable to the person or the family but do not affect day-to-day living.
- MCI increases the risk for developing Alzheimer’s or another dementia.
- 15-20% of people over the age of 65 have MCI.
- People with MCI may improve, stay the same, or have progression of symptoms over time.
- MCI affects men more often than women.
SYMPTOMS
- Increased forgetfulness
- Difficulty remembering things that were previously easily recalled
- Forgetting appointments or scheduled events
- Frequently losing train of thought during conversations, while reading, or when watching TV
- Feeling overwhelmed when attempting to make plans or decisions
- Having trouble navigating familiar locations
- Being impulsive or showing poor judgement
- Trouble planning steps to accomplish a task
- Difficulty understanding instructions
RISK FACTORS
- Advanced age
- Family history of MCI or dementia
- History of high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke, high cholesterol, or heart disease
- Lack of exercise
- Lack of participation in mentally or socially stimulating activities
REVERSIBLE CAUSES
- Medication
- Infections
- Vitamin deficiencies and malnutrition
- Thyroid disease
- Anxiety and depression
- Substance and/or alcohol abuse
- Hearing loss
DIAGNOSIS
- Thorough review and assessment of medical history and medications, observations during the
appointment, and interviews with family or close friends - Physical and neurological exam, including memory test and depression screen
- Lab studies, including blood count and glucose, thyroid, Vitamin B12, and Vitamin D levels
TREATMENT
- Medications may be used to treat mild memory loss.
- Mental stimulation is recommended through new socializations, starting or expanding
hobbies, doing puzzles, and reading fiction. - Adopting a healthy lifestyle with exercise, the Mediterranean diet, and adequate hydration is
important. - Vitamin replacement may be recommended.
- Limit alcohol intake and stop smoking.
- Correct hearing if there is a deficit.
- The treatment of underlying anxiety or depression may help improve symptoms of MCI.

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