Symptom 9. Difficulty Keeping Up with Regular Activities: When Daily Tasks Become Daunting in MCI
Another critical symptom of mild cognitive impairment is the difficulty in keeping up with regular activities. This might involve day-to-day chores, hobbies, or even tasks at work. For someone experiencing MCI, these previously mundane and familiar tasks can start to feel challenging and daunting.
This difficulty stems from the various cognitive impairments that are part of MCI. As we’ve seen, MCI can affect memory, attention, and cognitive flexibility, all of which are critical in carrying out daily tasks.
For example, someone with MCI might struggle to remember the steps in a recipe they’ve cooked countless times before. They might find it challenging to focus on a book they’re reading or forget critical steps in their daily hygiene routine.
One critical aspect of this symptom is its impact on the person’s independence. Difficulty with daily tasks can make a person increasingly reliant on others for assistance, which can lead to feelings of frustration and a loss of self-esteem. It can also contribute to withdrawal from enjoyable activities, leading to a decreased quality of life. (9)
