We are all relatively familiar with what Alzheimer’s disease entails, but many people in NJ are confused about the term mild cognitive impairment. Mild cognitive impairment is not a catchall phrase. It is a diagnosable condition that sometimes, but not always, precedes and predicts the onset of dementia or Alzheimer’s. If you are noticing some signs of mild cognitive impairment, your best option is to call a doctor in NJ for a clinical assessment.
The signs and symptoms of mild cognitive impairment can be amnestic or non-amnestic. Amnestic mild cognitive impairment means that memory loss is one of the major symptoms. General forgetfulness that seems to persist or gets worse over time, including the forgetting of truly important things like appointments can be a sign of mild cognitive impairment.
Non-amnestic symptoms include the loss of good or sound judgment or the inability to solve problems or puzzles that the person was once able to do. Confusion can be another sign of mild cognitive impairment. If a person suddenly wonders where they are or how they got there, it could be a sign of mild cognitive impairment. Other signs and symptoms can be mood-related such as increased irritability, anxiety, or depression.
In some cases, mild cognitive impairment can be managed with lifestyle interventions that prevent it from progressing. Exercise and diet are factors that can slow cognitive impairment. However, a doctor will want to monitor the person regularly to determine whether symptoms are residing, stabilizing, or getting worse. Mild cognitive impairment could be a risk factor for dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
There are options for memory care, including programs that help to mitigate the symptoms and improve the overall quality of life. Senior centers in NJ like Regency have comprehensive memory care programs that can help with mild cognitive impairment, dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease.
