Mild Cognitive Impairment

Memory loss has long been recognized as an inevitable part of aging. Everyone experiences a "senior moment" — the inability to recall the name of an acquaintance or the items on a shopping list. With age, these memory lapses become more common.

But a sharp decline in short-term memory could be more than normal "forgetfulness." It could be a symptom of a condition called mild cognitive impairment (MCI). People with MCI tend to retain critical thinking and reasoning skills but experience a significant short-term memory loss. They may experience trouble remembering the names of people they meet or the flow of a conversation. They also may have an increased tendency to misplace things. They may rely more on a calendar, notes and lists but still manage their daily activities.

Mild cognitive impairment may be a signal of a more serious condition on the horizon. It is believed to be a transitional disease between the normal memory loss of aging and conditions such as Alzheimer's disease. MCI has been associated with a higher-than-normal risk of dementia but not all MCI patients develop it.

Our Approach to Mild Cognitive Impairment

As a world leader in the field of dementia disorders, UCSF offers thorough evaluations for patients experiencing mild cognitive impairment. We take care to address any medical conditions – such as depression, autoimmune disorders and side effects from medication – that may contribute to memory difficulties. We also offer support groups for family members and friends.