The Misconceptions of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)
As we age, our thought processes may become slower and be a bit more forgetful; misplacing our keys occasionally or forgetting why we walked into a room. This forgetfulness can be easily resolved by taking a few minutes to recall where we left the keys or what we needed when we changed rooms. But memory lapses, memory loss, and losing things frequently is not part of the normal aging.
Some adults do have more memory or thinking problems than others. This might include forgetting important appointments, misplacing items, taking important medications or having trouble finding words or names of familiar people. These type of changes in the brain could be symptoms of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). Movement difficulties and problems with the sense of smell have also been linked to MCI. MCI is defined by deficits in memory that do not significantly impact daily living.
Friends and family members and even the person experiencing may the memory lapses often contributing the changes to “old age.” It is imperative to seek medical advice to rule out a medical condition such as a UTI or side effects from a medication. Early intervention is key to continuing to live a life with quality.
So how does this relate to dementia? Often thought of as a “unique neurological boundary between health aging and dementia,” MCI (Mild Cognitive Impairment) is not dementia. However, it is estimated between 12% to 18% of people 60 years or older living with MCI will develop dementia and approximately 10%-20% of people 65 years or older with MCI will develop dementia over a one year period.
The good news is most people with MCI never develop dementia and the symptoms may remain the same and the person can continue living independently by learning and using compensatory strategies to adapt to the changes in the brain. Remembering important information by keeping a journal, calendar or making lists, or setting an alarm to prompt a medication routine allows the person, take care of themselves, and participate in normal daily activities and hobbies.
The Alzheimer’s Association reports that about a third of people with MCI due to Alzheimer’s disease will develop Alzheimer dementia within five years. Lack of awareness when changes in the brain occur associated with a neurocognitive disorder, and denial by the person or family members is likely the two significant barriers for seeking professional help early. There is over 100 types of dementia and unfortunately there is still no cure, but by staying socially and physically active and engaging in life, a life of quality is possible.
If the functioning level of MCI changes and a progressive decline in memory, reasoning, social skills, and emotional reactions, and these deficits are severe enough that it impacts daily functioning, it is considered to be a Major Neurocognitive Disorder or MND. The most common types of MND are Alzheimer’s disease, Vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia and Frontotemporal dementia.
According to the Marist Institute for Public Opinion Poll, adults in the US fear Alzheimer’s disease more that cancer, stroke, and heart disease combined. Because of the stigma, a diagnosis comes late and a missed opportunity to develop an effective treatment plan and maintain independence longer its lost. A large percent of people living with dementia today are undiagnosed and can result in serious safety concerns. The person may continue to drive, make mistakes with their medications, unhealthy eating habits or keeping up with activities of daily living such as hygiene and may not safe being home alone. The person is at risk of getting lost, or become vulnerable to financial scams. Some are living alone, but many live with a family member who makes excuses for these behaviors, and
If you suspect a friend of family member is experiencing memory loss, memory lapses, changes in personality, or is exhibiting poor judgment, an evaluation is recommended. Supporting your loved ones and friends, rather than “looking the other way” can make the difference in the quality of life and well-being that person and your family will have.
If you would like more information on our Memory Ministry, Memory Cafe or our Family and Friends Workshops we offer, please contact Vicky at vpitner@firstumc.org