What Is Mild Cognitive Impairment?

As some people grow older, they have more memory problems than other people their age. This condition is called Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI).

People with MCI have mild problems with thinking and memory that do not generally interfere with everyday activities.

They are often aware of the forgetfulness. People with MCI can progress to Alzheimer's disease over time, but not everyone with MCI develops dementia.

• The U.S. National Library of Medicine, PubMed, has an overview of dementia, its causes, risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options.
• NIH's Alzheimer's Disease Education and Referral Center provides information and latest news on MCI.
• The Mayo Clinic offers details on symptoms and causes, diagnosis, and treatment options.
• The Alzheimer's Association provides quick facts about MCI.

Adapted from Alzheimers.gov, a website developed by the Department of Health and Human Services and the NIH/National Institute of Aging Alzheimer's Disease Education and Referral Center.

By NIH/National Institute on Aging