Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) involves noticeable changes in memory and thinking that go beyond normal ageing. It is an early stage between healthy ageing and dementia – but not everyone with MCI will go on to develop a dementia diagnosis.
What is Mild Cognitive Impairment?
Mild Cognitive Impairment, or MCI, is a condition where a person experiences noticeable changes in cognitive abilities – such as memory, attention, language or planning – but can still manage most daily activities independently [1].
MCI is often described as a grey zone between normal ageing and dementia. Unlike dementia, it does not significantly interfere with daily functioning. The person may notice they forget things more often, struggle to find words, or lose track of what they were doing – but can still shop, cook and manage their finances [2].
MCI affects an estimated 10–20% of people over 65 and is more common in older adults and those with risk factors such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes or depression.
Types of Mild Cognitive Impairment
There are two main types depending on which functions are most affected:
Amnestic MCI – Memory function is primarily affected. The most common form and the one most likely to progress to Alzheimer’s disease.
Non-amnestic MCI – Other cognitive functions are more affected than memory, such as planning, concentration or spatial awareness. May be associated with vascular dementia or other brain conditions.
Causes of Mild Cognitive Impairment
MCI can have several causes, and not all are permanent:
- Neurodegenerative changes – early brain changes that may be a precursor to Alzheimer’s or Lewy body dementia
- Vascular changes – damage to blood vessels in the brain, often linked to high blood pressure, diabetes or stroke
- Depression and anxiety – can produce cognitive symptoms resembling MCI that improve with treatment
- Thyroid disorders and vitamin deficiencies – reversible causes that should be ruled out
- Sleep disorders – chronic sleep deprivation affects the brain’s recovery and cognitive capacity
- Medication side effects – certain medications can affect cognition, particularly in older adults [3]
How Is MCI Different from Normal Ageing?
It is normal to become somewhat forgetful with age. The difference lies in degree and impact on daily life:
| Normal ageing |
Mild Cognitive Impairment |
| Occasionally forgets where keys are |
Repeatedly forgets important recent events |
| Takes longer to learn new things |
Noticeably struggles to retain new information |
| Occasionally struggles to find a word |
Frequently loses track mid-sentence |
| Uses a shopping list as a reminder |
Forgets the list despite having just read it |
| Slightly slower reactions |
Clearly reduced planning and reaction ability |
If changes are noticed by others or confirmed through cognitive testing, it is a sign that assessment should be sought [4].
MCI and the Risk of Dementia
Approximately 10–15% of people with MCI develop dementia per year, compared to 1–2% in the general population. Within five years, up to half of those with amnestic MCI have received a dementia diagnosis [1].
However, MCI does not inevitably lead to dementia. In some people the condition stabilises, and in others cognitive ability actually improves – particularly if underlying causes such as depression, sleep problems or medication are addressed.
Risk Factors
Factors that increase the risk of developing MCI and progression to dementia:
- Older age
- Heredity – especially if close relatives have had Alzheimer’s
- High blood pressure and diabetes
- Obesity and physical inactivity
- Smoking and heavy alcohol consumption
- Social isolation and depression
- Hearing loss – research shows a link to increased dementia risk [5]
Assessment and Diagnosis
MCI is diagnosed through a combination of:
- Conversation with a doctor about symptoms and how long they have been present
- Cognitive tests such as MMSE (Mini Mental State Examination) or MoCA
- Blood tests to rule out reversible causes such as vitamin deficiency or thyroid dysfunction
- Brain imaging (MRI or CT) where needed to assess brain structure
A dementia assessment is typically carried out at a memory clinic and usually requires several appointments.
Treatment and Preventive Measures
There are currently no approved medications specifically for MCI. However, several measures can slow deterioration and in some cases improve the condition:
- Regular physical activity – one of the most evidence-based ways to protect brain function
- Cognitive stimulation – reading, crosswords, learning new skills
- Social engagement – reduces isolation and stimulates the brain
- Treatment of underlying conditions – blood pressure, diabetes, depression
- Good sleep hygiene – the brain clears harmful substances during sleep
- Diet – a Mediterranean-style diet has shown positive effects on cognitive function [3]
Read more about how to prevent dementia and how to prevent dementia.
Sensorem’s personal alarm has GPS positioning, medication reminders and automatic fall alarm
Sensorem’s personal alarm is an example of a technical aid specially developed for people with dementia. The personal alarm works outdoors and has built-in GPS positioning so that relatives can see the user’s position on a map in the Sensorem app. Relatives are automatically called by the personal alarm (two-way communication) if the user leaves a predetermined geographical area. The personal alarm also has medication reminders, which means that the watch emits a sound and tells the user that it is time to take their medication. The personal alarm can also alert automatically in the event of a fall with the built-in fall sensor.
