Symptom 10. Increased Dependence on Memory Aids: The Reliance on Reminders in MCI
The tenth symptom of mild cognitive impairment is an increased reliance on memory aids or reminders. As MCI progresses, individuals might find themselves depending more and more on external aids to manage their daily lives. This can range from simple post-it notes to more sophisticated digital reminders.
For someone with MCI, remembering appointments, deadlines, birthdays, or even everyday tasks like taking medication can be a struggle. As a result, they might start to use memory aids more frequently.
They might use calendars, alarms, or reminder apps to keep track of their tasks and appointments. They might also start to rely more on family members or caregivers to remind them of things they need to do.
While using memory aids is not a problem in itself—many of us rely on reminders to manage our busy lives—it’s the increased dependence on these aids that can indicate MCI. If someone finds that they cannot manage without these reminders, or if their use of memory aids significantly increases, it might be a sign of cognitive impairment. (10)
