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Mild Cognitive Impairment

What is “mild cognitive impairment”?

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is the stage between the expected cognitive decline of normal aging and the more serious decline of dementia. It’s characterized by problems with memory, language, thinking or judgment. MCI affects 10-15% of all adults over the age of 65. Of these, 50% will progress to develop Alzheimer’s or some form of dementia. The primary symptom of Mild Cognitive Impairment is memory loss. Individuals with Mild Cognitive Impairment DO NOT have problems with performing activities of daily living. Their thinking is clear and normal, they are not depressed, and their mini mental exam score is 23 or higher.

Know What You’re Dealing With

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Symptoms

Common symptoms of mild cognitive impairment may include asking same questions over and over or getting lost when driving or walking. Additionally, they may wind up forgetting important dates or events. They may even have difficulty switching from one topic or task to another or even have trouble multitasking.

Treatment

If a medical problem is causing mild cognitive impairment, especially Vitamin B12 deficiency or Thyroid problems, resolution of the medical problem will likely improve the mild cognitive impairment. There is no specific medication which treats mild cognitive impairment. However, other strategies which are helpful include exercise, educational activities, social activities, and eating a healthy diet.

Several medical problems increase the risk of developing Mild Cognitive Impairment:
  • Hypertension
  • Diabetes
  • High Cholesterol
  • Depression
  • Thyroid problems
  • Vitamin B12 deficiency
  • Head trauma or head injury

Tools and Strategies

If a medical problem is causing mild cognitive impairment, especially Vitamin B12 deficiency or Thyroid problems, resolution of the medical problem will likely improve the mild cognitive impairment. There is no specific medication which treats mild cognitive impairment. However, other strategies which are helpful include exercise, educational activities, social activities, and eating a healthy diet.