- Cognitive impairment may refer to a mental state characterized by memory problems, learning problems, concentration problems, and poor decision making.
- Cognitive impairment can range from mild to severe.
- With mild cognitive impairment, individuals typically notice changes in cognitive functions, but are still
able to complete their everyday activities; severe levels of cognitive impairment can lead to losing the ability to understand the meaning or importance of something and the ability to talk or write, resulting in the inability to live independently. - The signs of cognitive impairment include the following: memory loss; frequently asking the same question; repeating the same story over and over; not recognizing familiar people and places; having trouble exercising judgment, such as knowing what to do in an emergency; changes in mood; changes in behavior; vision problems; difficulty planning and carrying out tasks, such as paying monthly bills.
- Cognitive impairment may lead to mental distress and frequent mental distress (FMD); mental distress includes stress, depression, and problems with emotions; frequent mental distress (FMD) is defined as experiencing mental distress or having mentally unhealthy days for at least 14 days in a 30 day period.
•Individuals can ask themselves the questions found below to help determine if they are suffering from some form of cognitive impairment. - During the past 12 months, as a result of confusion or memory loss, how often have you stopped doing the household activities or chores you used to do, such as: cooking, cleaning, taking medications, driving, or paying bills?
- During the past 12 months, how often has confusion or memory loss interfered with your ability to work, volunteer, or engage in social activities outside of the home?
- Delirium may refer to a rapid change in cognition and functioning that is related to chemical changes in the body.
- Identification and treatment of the underlying cause of the delirium is necessary to reduce an individual’s risk for experiencing long-term effects.
- The long-term effects of delirium include cognitive decline.
