Symptom 7. Difficulty Adapting to Change: The Struggle with Flexibility in MCI
Difficulty adapting to change is another hallmark of MCI. This could manifest as a struggle to adjust to new environments, routines, or procedures. It’s not unusual for someone with MCI to become stressed or overwhelmed when faced with changes, even those that might seem minor to others.
Individuals with MCI may find it increasingly challenging to step out of their comfort zones. They might resist changes in their routines or surroundings and prefer to stick to what’s familiar. Even a slight change in their daily schedule, like a different meal time or a new route to the grocery store, can become a source of anxiety.
This difficulty in adapting to change is often due to the cognitive demands that new situations impose. They require learning new information, remembering new procedures, and adapting to new environments—all of which can be challenging for someone with MCI. (7)
