Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is the stage that occurs between the normal aging-related decrease in memory and thinking and the more severe dementia-related decline. Problems with memory, language, or judgment may be a symptom of MCI.

MCI patients can recognize when their memory or other mental skills have “slipped”. Friends and family who are close to you may also notice changes. However, these modifications aren't severe enough to interfere with everyday living or disrupt routine tasks.

MCI may increase the likelihood of dementia caused by Alzheimer's disease or other brain disorders. On the other hand, some sufferers of moderate cognitive impairment might never grow worse. And some people finally improve.

Like the rest of the body, the brain ages and changes. Many people notice that their memory deteriorates as they age. It could take more time to remember a word or a person's name.

If concerns about mental function exceed what is expected, the symptoms could be caused by moderate cognitive impairment (MCI). MCI may be the cause of cognitive changes if:

The clinical diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment reflects the medical professional's best assessment of the cause of a patient's symptoms. The diagnosis of MCI related to Alzheimer's disease is given to people with MCI who have an abnormal brain positron emission tomography (PET) scan or spinal fluid test for amyloid beta protein, the protein found in amyloid plaques (one of the two hallmarks of Alzheimer's). To update the diagnostic criteria for MCI caused by Alzheimer's disease, the Alzheimer's Association and the National Institute on Aging (NIA) collaborated. This suggests that, in certain circumstances, MCI represents an early stage of Alzheimer's or another dementia.

To determine whether a person with MCI has brain changes that put them at a high risk of contracting Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, the recommendations make it a priority to find a biomarker (a measurable biological factor, such as levels of a protein, that indicates the presence or absence of a disease).

The updated recommendations suggest a diagnosis of MCI brought on by Alzheimer's disease if it can be demonstrated that alterations in the brain, cerebrospinal fluid, and/or blood are brought on by physiologic processes connected to the illness.

The following essential aspects are included in a medical workup for MCI:

MCI's origins are still not entirely known. Many occurrences of dementia, but not all, are thought to be the consequence of very early-stage brain alterations brought on by Alzheimer's or other neurodegenerative illnesses that produce dementia.

Ageing, a family history of Alzheimer's or other dementia, and diseases that increase the risk of cardiovascular disease are the risk factors most significantly associated with MCI when neurodegenerative illness is the underlying cause and not another reason.

Via its fast approval process, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorized aducanumab (AduhelmTM) and lecanemab (LeqembiTM) for the treatment of early Alzheimer's disease. These treatments delay the course of the disease by addressing the underlying biology of Alzheimer's disease. They show that eliminating beta-amyloid plaques, one of the symptoms of Alzheimer's, from the brain slows down the disease's progression and improves cognition and function in those who have the condition.

To better understand the causes, risk factors, and prognosis for MCI, more study is required on the biochemical changes connected to normal aging, MCI, Alzheimer's disease, and other dementias.

Psychological support plays a vital role in addressing the emotional and practical challenges associated with MCI. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), and other therapeutic approaches can help individuals cope with stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns commonly associated with MCI. These interventions focus on building resilience, enhancing coping strategies, and promoting overall well-being.

Accessing mental health services, including online psychiatric consultation, counselling, and online therapy, is increasingly convenient and essential for individuals navigating cognitive changes and their impact on daily life. Whether it's addressing relationship problems, managing symptoms of PTSD or ADHD, or simply providing support and guidance, qualified professionals are available to assist individuals and their families on their journey with MCI and beyond.

Support groups and psychoeducation are additional helpful resources for people with MCI and those who care for them. These discussion boards provide a platform for knowledge acquisition, experience exchange, and networking with like-minded individuals. Support groups can lessen feelings of loneliness and provide people with the tools they need to take proactive control of their condition by creating a sense of belonging and understanding.

To optimize cognitive health and manage MCI, lifestyle adjustments are essential in addition to pharmacological therapies and psychological support. It has been demonstrated that behaviors including consistent physical activity, mental stimulation, a balanced diet, social interaction, and enough sleep can support brain health and possibly halt the advancement of cognitive decline. With a comprehensive strategy that takes into account social, mental, and physical health, people with motor cognitive impairment (MCI) can prolong their independence and improve their quality of life.

In summary, moderate cognitive impairment (MCI) is a complicated, multidimensional illness that necessitates an all-encompassing approach to diagnosis, care, and management. People with MCI can get the help and resources they need to deal with the difficulties of cognitive decline and continue to lead meaningful lives by combining medical, psychological, and lifestyle therapies. We continue to expand our knowledge of MCI and create more potent preventative, early detection, and therapeutic measures through further study and cooperation.

Contributed by: Dr (Prof) R K Suri, Clinical Psychologist & Life Coach &  Ms. Aditi Bhardwaj, Psychologist