Symptom 6. Changes in Personality or Behavior: Subtle Shifts in MCI
Another symptom that comes to the fore in MCI is changes in personality or behavior. This can be one of the more challenging symptoms to identify, mainly because such changes can be subtle and can easily be attributed to stress, age, or physical health issues.
However, when personality or behavioral changes are a result of MCI, they tend to be consistent. Individuals may exhibit mood swings, become more irritable, or show increased levels of anxiety or depression. They might also become more withdrawn or show less interest in social activities or hobbies they previously enjoyed.
Family members and close friends are usually the first to notice these changes. They may observe a shift in the individual’s demeanor or behavior that is uncharacteristic of their usual self. For instance, someone known for their punctuality may start being frequently late, or a generally cheerful person might appear unusually subdued or sad. (6)
