The Effects Of Mild Cognitive Impairment

1873 Words8 Pages
Over the last several decades, one of the diseases that continues to cause concern and difficulties during the later years of life is mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Mild cognitive impairment ranges from minimal loss of cognitive problems to the point it changes normal life. Large changes in our demographics have occurred during the twentieth century. Life expectancy has increased by over thirty years. When you factor in the increase of fertility problems, the age groupings shift dramatically (Mohajeri, Troesch, & Weber, 2014). These changes impact the demand for health and long-term care, as well as expenses for pensions and social security (Mohajeri, et al., 2014). Another factor adding to this situation is, health expectancy is 8…show more content…
This research paper will explore current findings in the area of nutrition, and its’ effects on the cognitive brain functions of the over fifty year old adult. What factors impact Mild Cognitive Impairment? Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a newly recognized medical condition that involves the stage between normal, age-related cognitive decline and more serious decline associated with dementia. People with MCI can have problems with memory, language, thinking, and judgement that generally aren’t severe enough to cause significant problems in their day-to-day lives and usual activities (Murray, 2014). Senior adults who have MCI are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease, or another form of dementia, but it is not a certainty that everyone with MCI will get Alzheimer’s. MCI is a new diagnosis, so drug companies are busy formulating drugs to fill the needs of the senior adults who are actively looking for help. Medications currently used for Alzheimer’s are known as “cognitive enhancers” and they are being used to treat MCI. But, studies do not show any benefit and the side effects can cause even more problems. One of the drugs, tacrine (Cognex), has already been taken off the market (Murray, 2014). Nutrition is being examined as a factor that can impact the brain. Brain cells are the most complex, long living and nutritionally demanding cells in the body (Murray, 2014). These cells are impacted by the nutrition available
Open Document