What is “Mild Cognitive Impairment?”

 

If you or a loved one is experiencing some mild memory problems or were recently diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), you may find yourself wondering what that means for the future.  MCI is defined as the fine line between what we think of as normal memory or thinking and dementia.  Dr. Scott M. McGinnis, an associate neurologist at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, clarifies it by explaining, “We diagnose dementia when a person has changes in memory and thinking that significantly interfere with functioning in usual activities.” He cites examples such as getting lost driving to familiar places or having difficulty writing a check.  

MCI is diagnosed when a person has changes in their memory and thinking that goes beyond normal aging but does not qualify as full-blown dementia.  Medical experts explain that MCI may be a precursor to Alzheimer’s disease but are also quick to add that not all cases of MCI result in Alzheimer’s but rather may increase the person’s risk.  In fact MCI is caused by other things including medications and infections.  

Doctors suggest one way to cope with MCI is to get into the habit of writing out a list of “to do’s” each day and checking it throughout the day.  Some people want to know more and thus pursue medical tests that can identify if they will develop Alzheimer’s eventually, while others wish to take a more wait and see approach.  Whatever your decision, medical professionals say it may be helpful to learn as much as you can about MCI as a way to help you cope.  

In the short time MorningStar of Rio Rancho has been open to residents (since early 2019), we are proud to have earned a reputation for providing senior living Rio Rancho, NM families trust.  In addition to our 51 beautiful, private assist living suites, we have 26 secure suites for those afflicted with Alzheimer’s and other forms of memory impairment.   Our memory care wing is designed to care for those from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages.  Please visit our website to learn more.

At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, we are proud to offer the best senior living with our distinct mission statement - “to honor, to value, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents in a beautiful setting.  Please give us a call to set up a tour to see firsthand what the best senior housing in Rio Rancho, NM looks like.  

Source: health.usnews.com/health-news/patient-advice/slideshows/5-ways-to-cope-with-mild-cognitive-impairment