I’m not as mentally sharp as I used to be ... should I be worried?
While we all forget things from time to time, there may come a stage where you are concerned that what you’re experiencing is more than simple forgetfulness.
Some people experience a level of memory loss greater than that usually experienced with ageing but without other signs of dementia.
This is termed Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), a condition that causes a noticeable decline in memory and other cognitive abilities.
What does mild cognitive impairment look like?
Dementia Australia Advocate Andree Ernst, who lives with mild cognitive impairment, described some of the impacts on her daily life.
“If I’ve parked the car somewhere, it’s trying to remember where I’ve left it,” she said.
“Even going to a supermarket and remembering where to find certain things and finding my way around is more difficult for me now.
“I have to set up notes next to my desk and my husband is good at reminding me what I have to do.”
She said there were also some ‘joyful’ aspects of mild cognitive impairment.
“Sometimes I forget the bad things, like if I’ve had a dislike of something or someone. Everyone’s a friend to me at the moment!
“I can’t remember any enemies and every new day is a great new day.”
Tips for managing
Dementia Australia Advocate Dr Cecil Camilleri also lives with mild cognitive impairment and has found ways to manage it.
“I do a lot of self-care and recovery now,” he said.
“Exercise, meditation and mindfulness all help a lot.
“I would say I am now very much an expert of living in the moment.”
There are various practical things that Cecil does to help with his memory.
“I use my online calendar every day,” he said. “I think I’m a bit over the top because I put everything in there and it gives me reminders of upcoming activities days in advance.
“I also keep a note pad where I jot down things I’ve done as a reminder for upcoming counselling sessions.”
While people living with mild cognitive impairment have an increased risk of developing dementia, a substantial proportion of people diagnosed with the condition do not progress to living with dementia and have stable or even improved cognitive function over time.
I’m worried I have mild cognitive impairment, what should I do?
We asked one of Dementia Australia’s Helpline Advisors what advice they would give to someone concerned about their memory.
“Diagnosing mild cognitive impairment is difficult and may take some time.
“We provide information and listen to their concerns because it could be many things or it may, in fact, be the early stages of dementia.
“We really listen and encourage the person to keep the conversation going with their GP and, if they still have concerns, seek a second opinion and push for an assessment with a specialist.
“Even if it's not dementia it could well be something else that needs investigation and we really want people who feel worried about their memory to get support.”
Want more information about mild cognitive impairment?
If you are worried about your memory or that of a loved one, you can contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500, email helpline@dementia.org.au or webchat dementia.org.au/helpline/helpline-webchat
Visit the Dementia Australia website for our library guide on mild cognitive impairment.
You can also track your own brain health with our free phone app BrainTrack. It has games and challenges that help you monitor and understand changes in cognition over time, which you can use to start a conversation with your GP.