Seeking help for mild memory problems

There has been a dramatic increase in dementia awareness over recent years. The emphasis from government initiatives has been on early diagnosis, although available treatments have only a small effect on symptoms.

People in mid and late life are increasingly aware of even minor changes in their memory and are often concerned that they might have early signs of dementia, but do not know how or when to seek help.

New brain scanning techniques

People with mild memory problems without dementia are often diagnosed as having “mild cognitive impairment” (MCI) and not actively treated; current convention is that Alzheimer’s disease is diagnosed only when a person develops dementia. Practice is shifting to include “Alzheimer’s disease without dementia” - identifying people with MCI due to early Alzheimer’s disease pathology.

New brain scanning techniques also allow us to identify Alzheimer’s disease brain changes even before memory difficulties are present.

Clinical trials

Anyone concerned about their memory can tell their doctor and may be referred to a memory clinic for assessment. If you are told that there is no cause for concern or that you have MCI, you may be able to access further in-depth assessment and to take part in clinical trials of potential new disease-modifying treatments targeting the earliest stages of Alzheimer’s disease.

For more information, or if you are worried, see a neurologist.