Mild cognitive impairment (MCI)

Free

E-Newsletters

Subscribe to receive the latest updates on health topics. About our newsletters

  • Housecall
  • Alzheimer's caregiving
  • Living with cancer

Lifestyle and home remedies

By Mayo Clinic staff

Study results have been mixed about whether diet, exercise or other healthy lifestyle choices can prevent or reverse cognitive decline. Regardless, these healthy choices promote good overall health and may play a role in good cognitive health.

  • Regular exercise has known benefits for heart health and may also help prevent cognitive decline.
  • A diet low in fat and rich in fruits and vegetables is another heart-healthy choice that may also help protect cognitive health.
  • Omega-3 fatty acids are also good for the heart. Most research showing a possible benefit for cognitive health uses fish consumption as a yardstick for the amount of omega-3 fatty acids eaten.
  • Social engagement and intellectual stimulation may make life more satisfying and help preserve mental function.
References
  1. Preventing Alzheimer's disease and cognitive decline. National Institutes of Health State-of-the-Science Conference Statement. April 26-28, 2010. http://consensus.nih.gov/2010/docs/alz/ALZ_Final_Statement.pdf. Accessed June 25, 2010.
  2. Petersen RC, et al. Mild cognitive impairment ten years later. Archives of Neurology. 2009;66:1447.
  3. Roberts RO, et al. Subjective complaints in mild cognitive impairment make a difference. Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica. 2010;21:242.
  4. Wright JD. Mild cognitive impairment. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed June 28, 2010.
  5. Winblad B, et al. Mild cognitive impairment — Beyond controversies, towards a consensus. Journal of Internal Medicine. 2004;256:240.
  6. Petersen RC. Mild cognitive impairment as a diagnostic entity. Journal of Internal Medicine. 2004;256:183.
  7. Essentials of a diagnostic workup. Alzheimer's Association. http://www.alz.org/professionals_and_researchers_14902.asp. Accessed June 30, 2010.
DS00553 Aug. 26, 2010

© 1998-2012 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). All rights reserved. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.com," "EmbodyHealth," "Enhance your life," and the triple-shield Mayo Clinic logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.

Print Share Reprints

Advertisement


Text Size: smaller largerlarger