When It Is More Than Normal Aging

Written By Lauren Ewing

It is normal to experience SOME very mild changes in cognition as we age. With normal age-related cognitive changes, these difference are usually only noticed by the person experiencing them - not by loved ones or medical professionals.

With normal aging, you would:

  • Continue to function independently, without difficulty completing daily self-care tasks, work responsibilities, or maintaining relationships.

  • Notice only MINOR forgetfulness such as occasionally misplacing an item or forgetting a name briefly.

 

But what happens when changes feel like more than normal aging?

You may begin to notice:

  • Difficulty remembering upcoming appointments

  • More frequent trouble recalling names of familiar people

  • Loved ones may start noticing changes

  • A detailed medical evaluation from your doctor can now identify specific areas of concern

It’s also common for individuals experiencing these signs/symptoms to feel worried, frustrated, or even dismissive of symptoms during this stage - these reactions are very understandable.

This stage in-between normal aging and a diagnosis of dementia is called Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), or Mild Neurocognitive Disorder per the DSM-5. A person can remain in the MCI stage without progressing towards dementia. However, having MCI does increase the risk of developing dementia over time.

 

What to do if you suspect you or a loved one has developed MCI?


First, I highly recommend you schedule a visit with your primary care physician as soon as possible. Be prepared to explain:

  • Which cognitive changes are concerning you

  • How long symptoms have been present

  • Whether loved ones or coworkers have noticed changes

Second, ask your doctor to review:

  • Current medical conditions that may be causing increased confusion

  • Medications you are on that may be causing these impairments

Ask for a thorough evaluation to rule out potentially reversible causes such as infections, vitamin deficiencies, sleep disorders, mood changes, or metabolic conditions.

Finally, begin implementing daily habits that support brain health and help build cognitive reserve.

  • Make sure you’re eating a well-balanced diet that focuses on whole foods including berries, walnuts, healthy fats, and lean proteins.

  • Ask your doctor how much water you should be drinking in a day to maintain adequate hydration.

  • Make sleep a priority! I know life is crazy and 7-9 hours of solid sleep isn’t always attainable. However, resting when you can to give your brain time to rest and recover is one of the best natural remedies for brain health.

  • Add movement into your daily routine - a walk, a dance break in the day, strength training, etc. Whatever form of movement you can and want to do, make it an every day habit!

  • Exercise your brain - read, take a course, learn a new language, develop a new skill, do puzzles that challenge your mind. Never stop learning!




Below are some links to trusted resources to continue learning about MCI. Please comment below with any questions or to share your experiences!

 
Lauren Ewing
Next

5 Questions to Ask Your Doctor When Being Assessed For or Diagnosed with Dementia