Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is characterized by noticeable cognitive decline that is greater than expected for an individual’s age but does not significantly interfere with daily life. Common symptoms include memory problems, particularly with recent events, and difficulties with complex tasks such as planning and decision-making Hwang, 2004. These cognitive deficits are often accompanied by neuropsychiatric symptoms, which can include depression, anxiety, irritability, and apathy Martin, 2020. These symptoms are not only distressing for patients but also serve as early indicators of potential progression to more severe forms of dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease Lopez, 2005.
Neuropsychiatric symptoms in MCI are highly prevalent, with studies reporting that between 35% and 85% of individuals with MCI exhibit such symptoms Martin, 2020. Depression and anxiety are particularly common, and their presence can exacerbate cognitive decline and functional impairment Rozzini, 2007. Additionally, symptoms like agitation, aggression, and sleep disturbances are frequently observed, further complicating the clinical picture Feldman, 2004. These symptoms often co-occur, and their combination can have a cumulative effect on the severity of cognitive impairment and the risk of progression to dementia Martin, 2020.
The presence of neuropsychiatric symptoms in MCI is not only a marker of disease severity but also a predictor of future cognitive decline. For instance, individuals with higher levels of depression and anxiety are more likely to progress from MCI to Alzheimer’s disease Sugarman, 2018. Moreover, the onset of neuropsychiatric symptoms in later life, even in the absence of significant cognitive impairment, should raise suspicions of an underlying neurodegenerative process Gallagher, 2017. Therefore, early identification and management of these symptoms are crucial for improving patient outcomes and potentially delaying the progression to more severe cognitive disorders Algın, 2010.
In summary, mild cognitive impairment is marked by cognitive deficits and a high prevalence of neuropsychiatric symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and irritability. These symptoms not only indicate the severity of MCI but also predict the likelihood of progression to dementia. Early detection and management of neuropsychiatric symptoms are essential for improving patient outcomes and delaying further cognitive decline.
