Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a condition that causes a slight but noticeable change in memory and/or thinking skills but is not severe enough to affect the person’s ability to complete daily tasks. MCI is different from Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias as it does not typically cause general confusion, personality changes, or significant disruptions to a person’s life.
Common signs and symptoms
MCI appears in one of two forms, each with different symptoms:
Amnestic MCI mainly affects memory. People with amnestic MCI may start to forget important information they could remember easily before, like names, recent conversations, or upcoming appointments. They may also lose things often or have trouble coming up with desired words.
Non-amnestic MCI affects other thinking skills, like decision-making, judgment, and visual awareness. People with non-amnestic MCI may have trouble handling finances, staying organized, or following a sequence of steps. Problems with movement and sense of smell are also possible.
Causes and progression
For some people diagnosed with MCI, an underlying cause is found that can be treated, such as a vitamin deficiency, sleep disorder, or adverse reaction to medication. For many, the cause is unknown. Research suggests genetic factors may play a role, and brain changes similar to those in Alzheimer’s disease have been found in some people with MCI. There is also evidence that certain conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure increase risk of developing MCI.
The progression of MCI varies from person to person. Some people see an improvement in their symptoms over time, while others remain stable and experience no further change. For some, symptoms will worsen over time. People with MCI have a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia than the general population. Those with amnestic MCI are at the highest risk; 8 of 10 people with amnestic MCI are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s within 7 years.
Diagnosis of MCI
Mild cognitive impairment can be diagnosed by a primary care doctor or a specialist like a neurologist. To reach a diagnosis of MCI, the doctor will consider a number of factors, including:
- Reports from the individual and/or those close to them about changes in cognition
- Cognitive tests showing that performance in memory or other tasks is lower than expected for the person’s age and education level (but not severe enough to meet criteria for dementia)
- Effects on daily functioning – the person may take more time, be less efficient, and make more errors, but generally maintains independence and needs minimal assistance
- Results from lab tests or brain scans, which are sometimes done to rule out other causes or identify changes in the brain
Cognitive changes in MCI can be subtle and are thus sometimes mistakenly attributed to age, stress, or other conditions. It may be helpful to keep a log of what issues are noticed and how often they occur to show the doctor. Bringing someone to the appointment who knows the individual well can also help. If the doctor seems dismissive of the person’s concerns, consider getting a second opinion.
Treatment and support
There is no cure for MCI and currently no standard treatment, though in some cases the doctor may be able to address underlying conditions or adjust or discontinue medications that can worsen symptoms. If there is suspicion that a person’s cognitive impairment is a very early stage of Alzheimer’s disease, some doctors may prescribe cholinesterase inhibitors, which are drugs commonly used to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s. However, experts disagree on whether these medications have a significant effect on MCI. Individuals with MCI may also be eligible to participate in clinical trials testing new medications and other treatments.
Lifestyle changes
Several habits are recommended to manage symptoms of MCI and support brain health. These include:
- Staying socially engaged
- Seeking out new experiences
- Eating a heart-healthy diet
- Getting enough sleep
- Regular exercise
- Using memory aids like notes, to-do lists, and calendars
- Routine medical care (the doctor may want to reassess regularly to track any symptom changes)
These habits help to maximize cognitive ability and may also help prevent symptoms from worsening.
Staying connected
Receiving a diagnosis of MCI can be difficult, but the journey does not have to be taken alone. Building a support system of friends, family, and other trusted individuals can help to cope with challenges. For those still working, ask about accommodations to help maintain well-being and success in the workplace.
To learn more about different symptoms, causes, ways to support people living with dementia, see our classes, programs, and other free services. You may also speak to one of our dementia experts by calling us at 858.492.4400.
