This may be the first sign of Alzheimer’s: In 80% of cases, people will develop the disease
Consult a specialist:
Visit a neurologist or geriatrician for a full evaluation.
Describe your symptoms in detail and mention any family history of Alzheimer’s or dementia.
Diagnostic tests:
Cognitive tests: Assessments such as the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) or the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) measure memory, language, and other functions.
Blood tests: Biomarkers such as tau protein or beta-amyloid can indicate Alzheimer’s risk, according to Nature Medicine (2024).
Brain imaging: MRIs or PET scans detect brain atrophy or plaque buildup.
Genetic testing: Although not routine, they can identify the APOE4 gene in high-risk cases.
Observation of loved ones:
Family members often notice changes before the affected person. If your loved ones express concern, take it seriously.
Practical example: A 70-year-old woman who misses appointments asks her daughter to accompany her to the neurologist. A MoCA test reveals MCI, and an MRI shows early brain changes, leading to an immediate treatment plan.
In addition to MCI, certain factors increase the risk of progressing to Alzheimer’s:
Advanced age: The risk doubles every five years after age 65.
Family history: Having a first-degree relative with Alzheimer’s increases the risk by 10–30%.
Unhealthy lifestyle: Diets high in saturated fat, a sedentary lifestyle, and lack of sleep contribute to brain damage.
Medical conditions: Hypertension, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease damage brain vessels.
Lack of mental stimulation: Low intellectual or social activity accelerates cognitive decline.
For example, a 68-year-old person with MCI who eats a diet high in fried foods and lacks exercise has a higher risk than someone with healthy habits.
Although MCI doesn’t always progress to Alzheimer’s, taking preventative measures can delay or even prevent its development. Experts recommend:
1. Adopt a brain-healthy diet
The MIND diet (a combination of the Mediterranean and DASH diets) reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s by 35%, according to Alzheimer’s & Dementia (2024). It includes:
Leafy green vegetables (spinach, kale): 6 servings/week.
Berries (blueberries, figs): 2 servings/week.
Omega-3 rich fish (salmon): 1 serving/week.
Nuts and olive oil: Use daily.
Limit red meat, sweets, and processed foods.
Practical example: Swap your fast-food lunch for a spinach salad with salmon and blueberries. Use olive oil as a dressing.
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