Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) is a health problem that changes how the brain works. MCI makes it harder to think and remember things. There are several types of MCI, but it is most often thought to be the earliest clinical stage of Alzheimer’s. Spotting the early signs and symptoms of MCI can help you get more choices for treatment and support for your loved one.

People with MCI or memory problems may be first to notice that they are confused, have trouble with normal activities, or have other symptoms. Or, family and friends may be first to notice. Symptoms can go on for years. But they can also get worse quickly. It is very important to talk to a doctor as soon as you notice them. This can help you and your loved one find out what’s wrong and make a plan.

Sometimes people with MCI are the first to notice they’re experiencing confusion, difficulty with normal activities or other signs of MCI. In other cases, family and friends may be the first to notice. Often, symptoms can go on for years, but sometimes they can progress quickly. That’s why it’s important to discuss them with a doctor as soon as you notice them. Getting expert medical guidance can help you form a game plan for managing and treating the condition.

A visit to the doctor can feel scary or confusing. It can be especially hard for someone with memory problems. Getting ready ahead of time can help you and your loved one. Think about what you want to say and what you want to ask. This will help the doctor understand your loved one’s symptoms. Then, they can give you and your loved one the information you need to know.

A visit to the doctor can feel scary or confusing. It can be especially hard for someone with memory problems. Getting ready ahead of time can help you and your loved one. Think about what you want to say and what you want to ask. This will help the doctor understand your loved one’s symptoms. Then, they can give you and your loved one the information you need to know.

A yearly doctor’s visit, physical or wellness visit is a great time for you or your loved one to ask about brain health. Planning ahead gives you a chance to look for changes in their memory over a period of time. This will give their doctor better information about their brain and memory. Then, they can check out any problems and help keep your loved one’s brain healthy.

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Staying fit helps keep the brain healthy. Learn how to make an exercise plan that is right for you or your loved one.

Sleep helps reduce the buildup of proteins associated with Alzheimer’s disease. It also helps keep the immune system healthy. Learn more about the link between Alzheimer’s and sleep, and what you and your loved one can do.

Staying in touch helps keep the brain healthy. Research shows that talking to people and spending time with friends and family can slow rates of memory problems. Learn how you can help your loved one to get these benefits.