What to know about brain health and mild cognitive impairment

Taking care of our brain health is just as important as our physical health. As we age, it's common to experience some memory loss or cognitive decline, but for some individuals, these changes can be more pronounced and impact daily life.

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a condition that affects memory, thinking and cognitive abilities. If you're caring for someone with MCI, here's what you need to know.

Understanding mild cognitive impairment and its causes

MCI marks a noticeable but not disabling decline in cognitive abilities, including memory and thinking skills. This condition serves as a midway point between the expected cognitive wear that comes with aging and the more serious decline seen in dementia.

"People with MCI often maintain their independence, as their daily living activities aren't significantly impacted," says Jolynn Thomas MS, CCCSLP, BC-ANCDS, a Speech-Language Pathologist with Bryn Mawr Rehab Outpatient Malvern, part of Main Line Health. "However, they might find themselves forgetting things more often, struggling to find the right words or facing challenges with complex decision-making tasks."

MCI development is complex, involving many important factors. Naturally, aging stands as a significant contributor, given the gradual decline in cognitive functions as we grow older. Genetics, too, can influence one's susceptibility to MCI, suggesting that family history may offer clues to an individual's risk.

Equally important are lifestyle choices. Engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a balanced diet and avoiding harmful habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can all impact the likelihood of experiencing MCI.

Symptoms of mild cognitive impairment

Navigating the symptoms of MCI can be challenging as they vary widely among individuals. But common symptoms can include:

• Change in short term memory skills
• Difficulty in finding the right words during conversations
• Experiencing confusion in once-familiar situations
• Challenges in making decisions or organizing plans

These changes are subtle, not significantly impeding daily activities but may hint at early signs of cognitive decline. Being mindful of these symptoms is crucial for early detection and intervention, which can play a significant role in managing the condition and maintaining quality of life.

Diagnosis and treatment of mild cognitive impairment

Diagnosing MCI involves a thorough evaluation, including cognitive testing to gauge memory, thinking skills and problem-solving abilities. Your family member's doctor may also use imaging tests, such as MRI or CT scans, to look for brain changes that could be contributing to symptoms.

Although a cure for MCI is still unknown, there are ways to manage its symptoms. These include taking medications to improve cognitive function and making lifestyle changes like eating a healthy diet, staying active and engaging in mentally stimulating activities. These interventions not only help with MCI symptoms but also support overall brain health.

Strategies to prevent mild cognitive impairment

Keeping your mind active is crucial in the fight against mild cognitive impairment. Engage in activities that challenge your intellect, like learning a new language or hobby, to keep your brain sharp.

"Equally important is the management of chronic conditions. Regular check-ups and proper management of conditions like heart disease or diabetes can significantly impact your cognitive health, minimizing risk factors associated with MCI," says Thomas.

Additionally, fostering social connections provides cognitive stimulation and emotional support, which are vital for mental well-being. Participating in community events, joining clubs or simply maintaining regular contact with friends and family can help keep your brain engaged and active.

Understanding and managing mild cognitive impairment is crucial for brain health as we age. By recognizing MCI symptoms and taking preventive measures we can improve cognitive well-being. Investing in brain health now is key to a balanced and healthy future.

Next steps:

Make an appointment with Jolynn Thomas MS, CCCSLP, BC-ANCDS 
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