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Mild Cognitive Impairment
Mild Cognitive Impairment Mild Cognitive Impairment is characterized by decline in cognitive abilities (memory, concentration, orientation), and functional abilities (difficulties completing complex work-related tasks and daily activities) that correspond to pathological changes in certain parts of the brain. Researchers are studying these various changes in the brain as potential causes for Mild Cognitive Impairment. These mild impairments often, but not always, represent a very early stage of a dementia disorder, such as Alzheimer’s disease. Diagnosis A diagnosis of Mild Cognitive Impairment is based on the results of a full diagnostic evaluation that includes neurological examinations, mental status examinations, neuro psychological and psychiatric evaluations, physical examination including laboratory tests, and a review of the patient’s past medical history and medications that the patient is currently taking. The evaluation is complemented by clinical observations of the patient’s symptoms, their onset (sudden or gradual), presentation (how do symptoms occur), and progression of symptoms over time. Progression While many individuals diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment remain stable, a significant percentage progress to Alzheimer’s disease. For a small percentage, symptoms may actually improve. Causes Relatively little is known about the causes of Mild Cognitive Impairment, but a number of neurological and medical conditions probably contribute to these symptoms. In some cases studied at autopsy, pathologists have observed changes in brain structure and an increased accumulation of proteins forming amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles indicating that very early Alzheimer’s disease is sometimes the cause of Mild Cognitive Impairment. Care and Treatment Options Maintaining present health. At present there are no pharmacologic treatments available on the market to alleviate symptoms of Mild Cognitive Impairment, but new drugs are being tested in clinical trials. Psychosocial interventions are being developed and non-pharmacologic treatments are also being tested and include programs such as the Memory Enhancement Programat the Silberstein ADRC. Because memory impairment at this stage can produce anxiety, depression, or other emotional difficulties, counseling and appropriate medical treatment may also be necessary and advisable. Planning for the future. Although many people remain in this stage indefinitely and manage well on their own without need of assistance, some do progress into Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia. In either case, the person will benefit from having a good care plan in place. Planning for future healthcare is always a good place to start. Completing a healthcare proxy, a living will or power of attorney for healthcare and/or finances can help ensure that a person's healthcare needs are met when a person becomes unable to voice wishes on their own. Legal and financial planning can be completed with the help of an elder care attorney who understands many of the legal and financial issues associated with long-term elder care, and can advise the person about his/her options based on individual information about the person's present situation. Although people in this stage are able to care for themselves, planning to involve family, or in the absence of family, long-time trusted friends, in future care, is always a good idea - especially when a person is experiencing cognitive difficulties. Why is an evaluation important for people with Mild Cognitive Impairment? An evaluation for Mild Cognitive Impairment offers information about the nature and severity of symptoms that is important to creating an appropriate healthcare plan. Evaluations conducted periodically can help monitor these symptoms. Mild Cognitive Impairment is a condition for which treatments are now being tested in clinical trials and non-pharmacologic studies. Why is it important for researchers and clinicians to understand Mild Cognitive Impairment? At present, research shows that a significant number of individuals diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment progress to Alzheimer’s disease. The people who do not progress to AD remain in this stage indefinitely. It is critical for researchers and clinicians to understand why some individuals remain at this stage and why others develop Alzheimer’s disease. It is also extremely important to study the potential causes of symptoms of Mild Cognitive Impairment in order to develop appropriate medical and psychosocial treatments. |
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