Cognitive Disorders: Recognition, Treatment, and Support

Cognitive disorders encompass conditions ranging from mild cognitive impairment to dementia, affecting memory, problem-solving, and daily functioning, with evidence-based therapeutic interventions like cognitive behavioral therapy showing effectiveness in managing associated anxiety and maintaining cognitive function through professional mental health support.

Have you noticed yourself or a loved one struggling more with everyday tasks or memory? While some mental changes are normal with age, cognitive disorders can create genuine concern. Understanding these changes — and knowing when to seek support — is your first step toward maintaining mental wellness and peace of mind.

Understanding Cognitive Disorders: Recognition, Treatment, and Support

Cognitive disorders (CDs) represent a category of mental health conditions that affect a person’s cognitive abilities, including problem-solving, memory, learning, and perception. While some gradual mental decline can be a normal part of aging, when it progresses to the point that you or your loved ones notice significant changes, it could indicate a mild cognitive impairment (MCI). This article explores MCIs and available treatment approaches within the scope of clinical social work practice.

When Normal Aging Transitions to Mild Cognitive Impairment

Some gradual cognitive changes occur naturally with aging, but these typically shouldn’t significantly impact your daily functioning. If you’re experiencing noticeable difficulty with recognition, long-term memory, or decreased cognitive abilities, consider speaking with a healthcare provider for an evaluation of your cognitive functioning to determine if an MCI might be affecting you.

MCIs differ from dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, which represent more severe forms of cognitive impairment. Research suggests that approximately 10-20% of people experiencing an MCI eventually develop these more serious conditions. However, many MCIs remain stable or may even show improvement over time with appropriate support.

Cognitive Disorders That May Develop from Mild Cognitive Impairment

Some serious cognitive disorders that may result from an escalating MCI include:

Dementia

A decline in mental function significant enough to interfere with a person’s daily living and self-care abilities

Amnesia or Amnestic Syndrome

Memory loss or inability to retain new memories, including the loss of memories about people, events, facts, and experiences

Delirium

A significant change in mental ability, often characterized by confused thinking and reduced awareness of surroundings

Alzheimer’s Disease

A progressive disease involving degeneration of brain areas controlling thought, memory, and language, eventually affecting even simple task completion

Diagnosing Cognitive Impairments

Healthcare professionals typically begin with a thorough review of medical history to help eliminate treatable causes for cognitive impairment. You and possibly your close friends or family may be asked about changes in your daily functioning abilities. Your provider may order blood tests, brain scans, and various screenings to evaluate your current cognitive functioning and identify potential underlying causes.

In some cases, an MCI stems from another treatable condition such as low blood sugar, high blood pressure, dehydration, or other medical issues. When this occurs, the effects can often be mitigated or reversed. If not, an MCI generally serves as an early indicator of more significant cognitive disorders. That’s why older adults are encouraged to have regular checkups every 6–12 months to track changes in memory and cognitive skills.

“Identifying pending cognitive impairment at an early stage has become an increasingly important challenge to physicians. Decades ago, it was satisfactory to distinguish dementia from typical cognitive aging, but in recent years, the desire to make a more fine-grained decision on incipient disease has become apparent”, say the authors of a paper about evaluating MCI subtypes.

Recognizing Potential Signs of Mild Cognitive Impairment

According to the Cleveland Clinic, typical symptoms of mild cognitive impairment can include:

• Memory loss – frequently misplacing items, repeating questions or stories, forgetting names of close friends and family or important appointments
• Complex decision-making difficulties – struggling with routine but complex tasks like medication management, bill payment, or driving
• Language problems – difficulty finding words or understanding verbal/written information
• Reasoning and judgment challenges – increased difficulty making plans and decisions
• Attention issues – requiring more time to focus and experiencing frequent distraction

While these can all be normal aging experiences, they may indicate an MCI when they significantly interfere with daily functioning.

Prevention Strategies for Cognitive Impairments

While the exact cause of cognitive disorders isn’t fully understood, healthcare professionals recommend several approaches to help maintain cognitive health:

• Establishing a daily routine
• Learning new skills
• Engaging in mentally and physically stimulating activities
• Maintaining social connections with friends and family
• Practicing stress reduction techniques
• Prioritizing quality sleep and nutrition
• Regular physical exercise
• Moderating alcohol consumption
• Managing high blood pressure and other health conditions

These practices align with Harvard Health’s recommendations for protecting cognitive function.

Treatment Approaches for Cognitive Impairments

Some research suggests that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) may help manage anxiety often associated with cognitive decline. At ReachLink, our licensed clinical social workers are trained to provide this evidence-based therapeutic approach. Because psychotherapy stimulates the brain, it may serve as another way to keep your mind active and help preserve memory.

Currently, there are no approved medications specifically for MCIs. However, addressing underlying medical conditions that contribute to cognitive issues is essential. Research shows that hypertension, smoking, and diabetes can contribute to cognitive decline, all of which may respond to certain treatments and lifestyle modifications. Additionally, certain medications can influence mental functions, so discussing your complete medication regimen with your doctor is important to identify potential adverse effects.

Supporting Someone with Cognitive Impairment

When cognitive decline affects a loved one, consider these supportive approaches:

• Educate yourself about their specific condition and what to expect
• Prepare for potential progression if their MCI could develop into a more serious condition
• Build a support network for both yourself and your loved one
• Review important legal documents while your loved one can participate
• Make safety adjustments to their living environment
• Develop a comprehensive care plan
• Encourage healthy lifestyle habits that may slow progression
• Seek therapy for yourself to maintain your own mental health while caregiving

How Therapy Supports Cognitive Health

Experiencing some cognitive changes is typical with aging, but certain practices may help mitigate or prevent worsening symptoms. Since high stress levels may contribute to cognitive decline, therapeutic treatment to reduce stress can be beneficial. Therapy also engages the mind, which is another recommended preventative measure.

Telehealth Therapy for Cognitive Support

Virtual therapy through ReachLink offers a convenient option for those seeking support for cognitive concerns. Our telehealth platform is particularly beneficial for older adults who may have transportation limitations or live in areas with limited mental health resources. Through secure video sessions, you can connect with a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in supporting clients with cognitive concerns and their families.

Evidence for CBT in Addressing Cognitive Impairment Symptoms

A 2021 study measured the effectiveness of internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy via video technology for older adults with mild cognitive impairment. Though the study size was small, 67% of participants reported that virtual therapy was both user-friendly and effective. Participants highlighted the convenience of receiving care at home and valued interacting with others experiencing similar challenges in group settings.

Another study of online CBT for older adults showed significant improvement in psychological distress, high participation levels, and sustained positive outcomes.

Final Thoughts

If you or a loved one has begun experiencing any key symptoms of mild cognitive impairment that impact daily functioning, speaking with a healthcare provider is the recommended first step. At ReachLink, our licensed clinical social workers can provide supportive therapy to help manage the emotional aspects of cognitive changes and develop practical strategies for maintaining quality of life.