Living with Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Guide to Maximizing Brain Health and Reducing Risk of Dementia

by Nicole D. Anderson, Kelly J. Murphy, Angela K. Troyer

One in ten adults over 65 has some form of mild cognitive impairment or MCI--thinking problems that go beyond those associated with normal aging, but that fall short of the serious impairments experienced by people with Alzheimer's Disease and other dementias. This is the first book written specifically for individuals with MCI, for their loved ones, and for the health care professionals who treat them. Written by three clinicians and researchers who have devoted their careers to MCI patients, this book provides up-to-date and reliable information on the nature of this disorder, how it may affect people, and what can be done about it. The authors explain how MCI is diagnosed and treated and they offer advice on how to improve cognitive health through diet and exercise, through social engagement, and through the use of practical, effective memory strategies. Throughout, case studies illustrate the real-life issues facing people living with MCI. The book includes "Questions to Ask Your Doctor," recommended readings and links to relevant websites, and worksheets to guide readers through healthy lifestyle changes.

496 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 9, 2012

Reviews

[Jan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the only book of its kind, written for people diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) as well as for their families and physicians. Eventually, there should be separate books for each of these three audiences. I found the book very interesting and useful, though not especially well written. It ought to be required reading for family members of people with MCI.

[Angie Boyter · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is intelligent, informative, and useful. A great deal seems to be written on Alzheimer's and serious dementia, but mild impairment or the fear caused by not knowing whether or not you might have impairment or whether it is likely to lead to a more serious condition probably affects many more people.
One review that I read criticized the book as too academic; I would beg to differ quite strongly. I appreciated that the book takes care to define terms in a way that is clear to a layperson without "dumbing" the language down. It also explains scientific bases for things where known, which helps the reader understand them better. Likewise, I liked the descriptions of studies that uncovered causes or supported (or failed to support) certain remedies for problems of mild cognitive impairment. Too often self-help books or other books for a general reader simply make recommendations with no authority cited or say "Studies have shown...." In whose opinion is this effective? Was there a study with 6 people or 600? The presentation gave me much more confidence in the material than I have with many non-fiction books for the general reader.
In some ways this book may leave the reader less satisfied than many I have seen that promise great results if I just take this natural supplement and practice this specific exercise regimen, but that is because it is an honest exposition of what seems to be the best thinking today. I came away much better informed about mild cognitive impairment and its diagnosis and prognosis and aware of the best techniques available to help those afflicted by it.

[Sylvia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pretty technical in the beginning. ...reconfirmed why I wasn't a science major in college. Later chapters are helpful in figuring how to cope with Paul's diagnosis. We are still left with not knowing. ...if his memory loss is because of his seizures or if it is a precursor to Alzheimers. We will know more in a year when he is retested. Meanwhile we are implementing many suggestions from the book.

[Gina · Rating 3 out of 5]

The first part of the book goes over brain function and the things that can impair it and risk factors. These can be good to know, but did not feel nearly as helpful as the last few chapters on things you can do to improve overall health and cognition.

[Hugh McGinness · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was a helpful book in conjunction with some others.

[Kathy Stinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Answered a lot of questions for me.

[C.K. Martin]

Very informative for anyone dealing with mild cognitive impairment, or who is close to someone with an MCI diagnosis. Exercise, diet, social engagement and exercising one's brain are all key tools in preventing impairment from worsening.

[Candy]

I've read some of this but it's pretty dry. I may pick it up again. Recommended to me by a psychologist.