Symptom 5. Language and Communication Difficulties: The Lost Art of Conversation in MCI
Language and communication difficulties often serve as a significant marker for MCI. This is not about occasionally fumbling for the right word or forgetting what to say mid-sentence—most of us experience that. However, when such issues become recurrent and start affecting the quality of communication, it may be indicative of mild cognitive impairment.
People with MCI might find it increasingly hard to find the right words during conversations. They may struggle to follow along with conversations, particularly when they move quickly or involve several people. They might lose their train of thought more often, struggle with explaining their thoughts, or find it harder to engage in detailed conversations.
They may also have trouble understanding complex sentences or following detailed instructions. Reading and writing might become more difficult, especially when it involves complex language or technical terms. In some cases, there may also be changes in the individual’s speech patterns, such as speaking slower, pausing frequently, or making more speech errors.
These language difficulties can lead to frustration, embarrassment, and withdrawal from social interactions. They can impact relationships, work performance, and the individual’s overall quality of life. (5)
