Early Signs of Mild Cognitive Impairment and Cognitive Decline
As we age, it’s natural for our cognitive abilities to evolve. However, sometimes these changes may signal the onset of mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a condition that falls between the normal cognitive decline of aging and the more serious cognitive impairments associated with conditions like Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. Recognizing the early signs of MCI is crucial for seeking timely intervention and support.
Here Are Some Early Signs of Mild Cognitive Impairment:
Forgetting Names, Places, Directions, or Where You Put Things
One of the initial signs of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a noticeable increase in forgetfulness. This can manifest as forgetting names of acquaintances, misplacing keys, or struggling with directions even to places you’ve gone to frequently.
Missing Appointments or Social Events (Forgetting or Avoiding Them)
Individuals with MCI might find it challenging to keep track of their schedules. They may inadvertently skip appointments or social engagements due to difficulties keeping track of days, times, and commitments.
On the other hand, many individuals with MCI also get easily overwhelmed by being out in social or high-pressure environments and tend to withdraw intentionally from these settings.
Struggling to Follow the Plot of Books, Shows, or Movies
MCI can affect an individual’s ability to comprehend and retain information from narratives. They may find it increasingly difficult to follow the plotlines of books, shows, or movies, which can be a frustrating and isolating experience.
Difficulties Following Conversations
People with MCI may have trouble keeping up with conversations, particularly in group settings or when the conversation moves quickly. They might lose track of the topic or have difficulty following the flow of discussion, leading them to lose confidence in these settings or to withdraw further.
Trouble Finishing Tasks and Staying Focused
Maintaining focus and completing tasks can become a significant challenge for individuals as they get older, but MCI can compound these struggles. These issues with sustained attention and tuning out distractions can make life very frustrating for individuals and their families.
Poor Problem-Solving Abilities and Struggling with Cognitive Flexibility
MCI can impact an individual’s problem-solving skills. They may find it harder to adapt to new situations or come up with creative solutions to challenges. Once again, this struggle impacts an individual’s confidence and willingness to branch out and do things independently.
Struggling with Spatial Awareness and Directions (Even in Familiar Places)
This may manifest as getting lost in familiar environments or having trouble judging distances and directions while driving, walking, or even moving around the house.
Having Trouble Reading Analog Clocks
Telling time requires areas of memory and logic that are damaged by early stages of cognitive decline, so older adults who suddenly lose this skill may be progressing in their memory loss.
Saying the Wrong Word
Difficulty finding the right words or substituting one word for another is a common sign of MCI. This can lead to communication challenges and moments of frustration.
Staying Sharper for Longer by Building Cognitive Skills
Recognizing early signs of cognitive decline is crucial, but it’s equally important to take proactive steps to maintain cognitive health as you get older. Engaging in activities that challenge the brain, such as puzzles, games, and learning new skills, can help build and strengthen cognitive abilities.
Click here to read more: Research-Based Methods to Prevent Cognitive Decline >>
Research on Brain Training for Mild Cognitive Impairment
Numerous studies have shown the benefits of brain training exercises for individuals with varying levels of mild cognitive impairment and age-related cognitive decline. LearningRx offers tailored cognitive training that targets the specific areas of cognitive function that are impacted, resulting in individualized programs to help you meet your goals.
In research studies on individuals with mild cognitive impairment, individuals have reported*:
- Improved memory, attention, and problem-solving skills
- Better sense of direction and spatial awareness
- Greater ability to participate in life, conversations, and relationships
- Improved confidence and sense of independence
- And more!
fMRI imaging also showed changes in brain connectivity that correlated with changes on cognitive test scores and reported improvements, as well.
Click here to learn more about brain training for age-related cognitive decline >>
*Results based on surveys and studies of past clients. Outcomes may vary.
