Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)

Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) refers to cognitive changes that are greater than expected for one’s age, but do not yet significantly interfere with one’s daily functioning. Neuropsychological evaluations assist in discriminating MCI from normal aging (no deficits noted on testing), as well as MCI from dementia (deficits on testing but no functional impairments). MCI can have many causes, and not all cases progress to dementia.

Common Symptoms

• Memory lapses, especially for recent events
• Difficulty concentrating or multitasking
• Slower thinking or processing speed
• Word‑finding difficulties

How Neuropsychological Assessment Helps

Neuropsychological testing provides a detailed evaluation of cognitive strengths and weaknesses, helping to clarify whether symptoms are consistent with MCI, normal aging, or another condition. Results guide treatment recommendations, support planning, and help track changes over time.

When to Seek Medical Advice

It is helpful to speak with a healthcare provider if you or your family notice persistent changes in memory, attention, or other thinking abilities. A medical evaluation can help identify contributing factors and determine whether a referral for neuropsychological assessment is appropriate.

The information provided on this page is for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for consulting with your healthcare provider regarding your specific clinical circumstances or determining whether a referral is necessary.