Getting the Right Diagnosis for MCI

Approximately 1% to 3% of people over the age of 65 have mild memory problems. Known as MCI, this condition is caused by a variety of factors. This can affect both daily life and professional activities. Getting the right diagnosis is important. It can help you understand your situation and plan for the future.

In some cases, memory problems can improve with time and may not even need treatment. However, other times, they may continue to worsen and can eventually lead to dementia. If you have problems with your memory, you should consult your doctor. They will perform tests to determine whether or not you have MCI.

Neuropsychological testing will help your doctor determine if you have MCI or another kind of memory problem. Your physician will compare your cognitive skills to those of your peers. They will also check for clues that you have other medical conditions. If you are diagnosed with MCI, your provider may recommend follow-up visits to monitor your progress. You can also participate in clinical trials to learn more about new treatments.

Having healthy habits such as exercising, eating right, and socializing can help slow down or prevent progression to dementia. In fact, researchers have found that older adults who practice these habits have less cognitive decline than those who do not.

The main causes of MCI are not fully understood. Most experts believe that many cases are due to changes in the brain in the early stages of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's. Some studies suggest that MCI is a precursor to dementia and is often the first sign of Alzheimer's disease.

The symptoms of MCI can include problems with remembering names, places, or important events. You may also have trouble planning for the future, making decisions, and following directions. You may need more help with daily tasks and may need to seek the advice of a friend or family member. You can also try to take part in a cognitive training program to improve your memory.

Your physician can perform blood tests to determine if you have any other health issues. You may also be asked questions about your mental skills to determine if you have MCI. If you are concerned about your condition, you should discuss your concerns with your physician or with a support group. You can find additional information about MCI at the Alzheimer's Association. The organization has updated its diagnostic guidelines for MCI due to Alzheimer's.

The Alzheimer's Association partnered with the National Institute on Aging to develop new diagnostic guidelines for MCI due to Alzheimer's. They convened an expert workgroup to update the criteria for MCI and dementia. They reviewed the latest research and developed updated criteria. These criteria were published in 2004 and are used to diagnose MCI in patients.

If you have been diagnosed with MCI, you should make sure to keep yourself physically active and maintain your mental activity. You should also maintain your heart health and manage any health conditions, such as high blood pressure.