Understanding Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Discussion on Subtle Brain Function Decline
Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a condition that often lies between "normal aging" and dementia. It is characterized by changes in cognitive performance that are uncommon or atypical for someone's age and education level [1][3]. While MCI is not necessarily a precursor to Alzheimer's disease or any other dementia, it is a diagnosis that should be taken seriously and managed with the guidance of your physician.
MCI is split into two groups: amnestic and non-amnestic. Amnestic MCI, which resembles early Alzheimer's disease due to memory loss as the primary symptom, has a higher probability of progressing to Alzheimer's disease compared to non-amnestic MCI [5]. In most cases, the person with MCI may have no noticeable symptoms [4]. However, symptoms such as feeling overwhelmed by decision making or planning activities, missing appointments or important events, forgetting words, losing sense of direction, and having difficulty understanding complex instructions may be present [5].
The American Academy of Neurology estimates that 15% of individuals over the age of 65 may meet certain criteria for a diagnosis of MCI [4]. The ventricles in the brain may enlarge due to cell death, and small strokes or reduced blood flow in brain blood vessels due to blockages and/or vascular damage may be observed in the brain of a person with MCI [2].
Diagnosing MCI typically requires significant clinical judgment by your doctor and may include multiple tests of your memory and cognition, images of your brain, and blood tests [6]. When you look at the brain of someone who died with a determination of MCI, often times you can see some of the same changes that we see with other degenerative brain diseases that can lead to dementia [5].
While MCI currently has no guaranteed cure, several strategies may help slow progression or improve cognitive function. Managing medical conditions such as treating vitamin deficiencies, thyroid problems, or depression that can cause reversible memory impairments is crucial [2]. Lifestyle interventions including a healthy diet, regular physical exercise, cognitive training, and social engagement have been shown to potentially slow cognitive decline [2]. Controlling cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease reduces the risk of further cognitive deterioration [2]. Early diagnosis and monitoring by neurologists or memory specialists can facilitate timely interventions aimed at preservation of function [2].
It is important to note that MCI is not significant enough to impact your daily life [4]. The Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) is one of the ways that memory is assessed in a clinical space [6]. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of MCI, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and management plan.
References:
[1] Alzheimer's Disease Education and Referral (ADEAR) Center. (2021). Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). National Institute on Aging.
[2] National Institute on Aging. (2021). Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI): What You Should Know.
[3] National Institute on Aging. (2021). What's the Difference Between Normal Aging and Dementia?
[4] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Mild cognitive impairment (MCI).
[5] American Academy of Neurology. (2021). Mild cognitive impairment (MCI).
[6] Alzheimer's Association. (2021). Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI).
- Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) may be linked to various neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease and dementia, as some individuals with MCI have brain changes similar to these degenerative diseases.
- Managing chronic diseases and mental health conditions, such as vitamin deficiencies, thyroid problems, depression, hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, and mental health disorders, can help prevent or slow the progression of MCI because these conditions can cause reversible memory impairments.
- A healthy lifestyle that incorporates fitness and exercise, nutritious diet, cognitive training, and social engagement is suggested to potentially slow cognitive decline associated with MCI and improve overall health and wellness.
- Diagnosing MCI requires medical expertise, multiple tests, brain imaging, and blood tests, and it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional when experiencing symptoms of MCI to ensure proper diagnosis and management.
