If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), you may feel like you’re in a wait-and-see phase. Mild cognitive impairment sits in the middle of a spectrum between typical changes in age-related memory and executive function and more serious cognitive decline.
“A good way to think about it is, normal aging involves occasional, mild changes; MCI includes changes that are more noticeable than expected for your age; and dementia refers to symptoms that begin to interfere with independence in daily activities,” says Hayley B. Kristinsson, PsyD, a board-certified clinical neuropsychologist at University of California in Irvine Health.
It’s important to monitor mild cognitive impairment, because it can sometimes be an early sign of a progressive condition, such as Alzheimer’s disease. At the same time, not every moment of forgetfulness is cause for concern. “Occasional memory lapses can occur at any age,” says Dr. Kristinsson. Factors such as normal aging, anxiety, depression, and poor sleep can all affect memory.
One of the most important distinctions is independence. When changes in memory or thinking start to affect your ability to carry out everyday tasks — managing medications, handling finances, driving — they may signal something more serious.
Use the questions below to reflect on any changes you’ve noticed over the past several months. Your responses can help guide a more in-depth conversation with your doctor.
