General Questions

• Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) means having some minimal problems with thinking that someone might notice, but that don't affect their daily life too much. People with MCI may have a higher chance of getting dementia, like Alzheimer's disease, but not everyone with MCI will get dementia.

• Dementia means having much bigger problems with thinking that someone and their family will notice, and that make daily life much harder. It can also affect behavior and emotions. The most common type of dementia is Alzheimer's disease, but there are other types too, like vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia.

Memory loss can happen for many reasons, and some causes are temporary while others are permanent or get worse over time. If someone has memory problems or is having trouble thinking, doctors will consider several conditions, such as:

• Normal aging
• Medication side effect, such as anticholinergics, opiates
• Head injury/Traumatic brain injury
• Stress and anxiety
• Alcohol and drug use
• Sleep disturbance
• Nutritional deficiencies, such as Vitamin B12, folic acid, or thiamine
• Hearing and vision loss
• Endocrine disorders such as hypothyroidism
• Normal pressure hydrocephalus
• Brain tumors
• Recurrent infections, such as urinary tract infections
• Chronic infections such as HIV/AIDS
• Stroke
• Neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease or Lewy Body disease

• Alzheimer's disease is a neurological disorder that gets worse over time and that affects thinking and reasoning abilities. It is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for up to 70% of all cases.
• The disease is defined by the presence of abnormal protein deposits in the brain, including amyloid plaques and tau tangles, which disrupt normal brain function and lead to the death of brain cells.
• Symptoms start slowly and get worse over time, and include memory loss, trouble with thinking and language, and changes in mood or behavior. As it gets worse, people may need more help with basic tasks like eating and getting dressed. There's no cure, but medicines and lifestyle changes like exercise and a healthy diet can help manage symptoms and make life better.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with dementia, it's important to understand the following things:

• Dementia gets worse over time: Dementia is a condition that affects memory, thinking, and behavior and usually gets worse as time goes on.
• It's not a normal part of aging: Dementia is not a normal part of getting older and is caused by different health problems, like Alzheimer's disease, stroke, or Parkinson's disease.
• Early treatment is crucial: Detecting and treating dementia early can help slow its progression and improve the person's quality of life.
• Communication may be tough: Dementia can make it challenging for people to communicate their needs and feelings. Being patient and understanding is essential.
• Safety is a top priority: As dementia gets worse, it can be hard for people to take care of themselves. It's important to take steps to keep them safe.
• Support is available: There are many resources for people with dementia and their families, like support groups, home care services, and respite care.
• Caregivers need help too: Taking care of someone with dementia can be tough and tiring. Caregivers should take care of themselves and ask for help when needed.
• Advance planning is essential: Planning early for legal and financial matters can help make sure that the person's wishes are followed as the disease progresses.

Mild Cognitive Impairment

Mayo Clinic

National Institute of Aging

Alzheimer's Association

Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer's Association

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

University of California San Francisco

Many people over 70 notice memory changes, and it's easy to assume that it's just a normal part of aging. However, taking a memory test can be valuable for several reasons:

• Distinguishing Normal Aging from Concern: Some memory changes are normal as we age, but more significant memory problems can indicate early signs of cognitive conditions like mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia. A memory test can help clarify whether your memory changes are typical or something that might need further attention.
• Early Detection Leads to Better Outcomes: If there is a problem, catching it early gives you more options. There are treatments, lifestyle changes, and strategies that can help slow cognitive decline. The sooner you know, the more control you have over your health.
• Peace of Mind: If your memory is actually within the normal range for your age, taking a test can help ease worry and provide reassurance.
• Monitoring Over Time: A single test provides a snapshot, but regular testing helps track changes over the years. This makes it easier to notice patterns and take action if needed.
• Taking Action While You Can: If cognitive decline is detected, you can make adjustments in your life—such as organizing finances, discussing long-term plans with family, or making lifestyle changes that can help maintain independence.
• Memory Issues Aren't Always Dementia: Other conditions, such as vitamin deficiencies, medication side effects, stress, or depression, can affect memory. A test can help start a conversation with a doctor to rule out treatable causes.

Even if you do notice some memory decline, it doesn't mean you’re destined for dementia. The test is a tool to help you understand your brain health and make informed decisions. Would you rather know and have a plan, or just assume it's "normal" without really being sure?

How often you should take a memory test depends on your personal health, risk factors, and any noticeable changes in cognitive function. Here’s a general guideline based on different situations:

• For Most People Over 65-70: Every 1-2 years is a good frequency if you are generally healthy and not experiencing significant memory issues. This helps track normal age-related changes and provides a baseline for future comparisons.
• If You Have Mild Memory Concerns: Every year is a reasonable approach if you or your family notice mild forgetfulness or difficulty recalling recent events. This helps identify patterns and determine if memory loss is stable or progressing.
• If You Are at Higher Risk for Cognitive Decline: Every 6-12 months may be best if you have risk factors such as:
  • A family history of Alzheimer’s or dementia
  • A history of stroke or other vascular issues
  • Conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure
  • Prior cognitive test results showing mild impairment
  • Concerns from a doctor or significant memory complaints
• If You’ve Already Been Diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI): Every 6 months to a year is recommended to monitor progression and adjust any interventions.
• If You Are in Your 80s or Older: At least annually is ideal, especially if there’s any noticeable decline or difficulty with daily tasks.
• Verbal Memory Testing:
  • If you’re using a home-based memory test like the Verbal Memory exams, you can do them more frequently (every few months) just to check in.
  • If you’re getting tested by a doctor or neuropsychologist in a clinical setting, follow their recommendations based on your results.