The Center for Neuropsychology and Counseling

Understanding and Navigating Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)

April, 2025

By Ashley Mondragon, Psy.D,  Neuropsychology Postdoctoral Fellow

Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), also known as Mild Neurocognitive Disorder (MND),is a condition that leads to subtle but noticeable changes in thinking skills such as memory, thinking, attention, language, reasoning abilities, and more. While these changes can be concerning, they are not severe enough to significantly impact daily functioning (e.g., driving, managing finances/medication, bathing, dressing, toileting, etc.). Individuals with MCI may find that they forget recent conversations or appointments, but they can still carry out everyday tasks independently

MCI can show up in two main forms:

1. Amnestic MCI, which primarily affects memory. Individuals may begin to forget important details, such as conversations or recent events.
2. Non-amnestic MCI, which impacts other cognitive functions like decision-making, planning, and judgment. People with this type of MCI might struggle with tasks like organizing their home or managing finances.

What Causes MCI?

The exact cause of MCI is not fully understood, but it is believed that in some cases, MCI may signal an early stage of a neurodegenerative disease. However, not everyone diagnosed with MCI will progress to dementia, and other factors, such as lifestyle and genetics, can influence its development.

How is Age Related to MCI?

MCI is more commonly noticed in individuals over the age of 50, but it can appear earlier or later. As people age, some cognitive changes are typical, but MCI represents a noticeable decline beyond normal aging.

Is There Medication for MCI?

While there is no cure for MCI, medications can sometimes be used to help manage symptoms. Cholinesterase inhibitors, such as donepezil, galantamine, or rivastigmine, are commonly prescribed. These medications may help slow the decline in memory and thinking abilities. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider to evaluate all current medications.

Factors That May Influence the Progression of MCI

Certain factors may increase the risk of MCI progressing to dementia, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, smoking, depression, and lack of mental or physical activity. Eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and reducing alcohol intake are also beneficial.

What to Do After Diagnosis

Individual:

1. Stay active with mentally stimulating activities and physical exercise.
2. Use reminders like calendars and lists to help with memory.
3. Engage in social activities, spend time with family, friends, or neighbors.
4. Communicate with your medical team for optimal healthcare.
5. Consider talking with a mental health professional to navigate the emotional impact of the diagnosis.

Family:

1. Offer help as needed, while encouraging independence.
2. Discuss care preferences and plans (i.e., living conditions, live-in/hired support, etc.).
3. Attend doctor appointments together for better understanding and support.
4. Consider joining a caregiver support group.
5. Don’t forget to care for yourself.

Helpful Resources near Doylestown, PA:

Doylestown Health Dementia-Friendly Initiative: Offers a Memory Café and educational programs. Click here to learn more.

Bucks County Area Agency on Aging: Provides information on services such as transportation, country resources, community social and recreational activities, legal services, and more. Find  out more here.

Visiting Angels Doylestown: Provides in-home care and respite for caregivers. Discover more here.

Moving Forward: A diagnosis of MCI is not the end—it is a chance to plan, seek support, and continue to enjoy life. Use available resources and stay connected with your loved ones.

If you or a loved one are concerned about possible mild cognitive impairment, consider contacting us, The Center for Neuropsychology & Counseling, to schedule a neuropsychological evaluation. This assessment can help clarify the nature of the changes, guide treatment planning, and support informed next steps.

Understanding Teen Dating Violence: Prevalence, Signs, and Resources

By: Maria Kaloudis, M.S.

February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, highlighting the often-overlooked issue of teen dating violence. As adolescents navigate relationships, many face risks, with up to 19% experiencing sexual or physical violence, nearly half encountering stalking or harassment, and 65% subjected to psychological abuse (Abrams, 2023).

Forms of Teen Dating Violence

• Physical Violence: Involves hurting or attempting to hurt a partner through physical force, such as hitting, kicking, or shoving.
• Sexual Violence: Includes forcing or attempting to force a partner into unwanted sexual acts or touching without their consent. It also encompasses non-physical behaviors, such as sharing or posting sexual photos without consent or sexting without mutual agreement.
• Emotional and Psychological Abuse: Using verbal or non-verbal communication to harm a partner mentally or emotionally. This includes manipulation tactics like gaslighting, constant criticism, verbal insults, and controlling behaviors designed to undermine self-esteem.
• Digital Abuse: Involves using technology and social media to monitor, control, or harm a partner. Examples include excessive texting, demanding passwords, tracking online activity, or sharing private content without consent.
• Stalking: A pattern of repeated, unwanted attention or contact by a current or former partner, causing fear or safety concerns for the victim or those close to them.

Warning Signs of Unhealthy Relationships

Recognizing red flags is key to early intervention. Common warning signs include:

• Withdrawing from friends, family, or favorite activities.
• Partner showing extreme jealousy or frequent mood swings.
• Feeling anxious or fearful when a partner contacts them.
• Partner controlling who they can see or what they can post online.
• Unexplained physical injuries or frequent apologies for a partner’s behavior.
• High highs and low lows in the relationship cycle, including “love bombing” (excessive compliments and gifts).

Digital Abuse and Red Flags

In today’s society, we all live through our technology, and digital abuse is a significant concern, as it allows abusers to control or harass victims even when they’re not physically present. Recognizing digital red flags is important for identifying unhealthy behaviors. Examples include:

• Excessive communication: Persistent calls, texts, or messages demanding constant updates on whereabouts or activities.
• Monitoring and control: Demanding access to social media accounts, tracking online activity, or dictating who a partner can interact with.
• Threats and pressure: Making threats if a response isn’t immediate or pressuring for explicit photos.
• Public humiliation: Posting or threatening to post private photos, messages, or hurtful comments online.
• Fake accounts: Using multiple or fake profiles to maintain unwanted contact.
• Privacy violations: Accessing a partner’s phone or accounts without permission.

Impacts of Teen Dating Violence

Victims of Teen Dating Violence often face long-term consequences, such as:

• Declining self-esteem and confidence.
• Increased risk of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation.
• Physical symptoms like headaches, stomach aches, or disrupted sleep patterns.
• Poor academic performance and reduced school attendance.

What You Can Do
If you or someone you know is experiencing digital abuse or other forms of teen dating violence, here are steps you can take to provide support:

• Pay attention to red flags: Observe any signs of unhealthy behaviors and discuss your concerns openly and calmly.
• Set healthy boundaries: Help them understand the importance of privacy and encourage setting limits on over-monitoring or controlling behaviors.
• Start a conversation: Approach the topic in a non-judgmental and supportive way to show you care and want to help.
• Encourage open communication: Suggest that they talk to a trusted adult, school counselor, or professional counselor to share their experiences and seek guidance.
• Safety planning: Assist them in taking proactive steps, such as:
  • Blocking abusive accounts.
  • Changing passwords to secure their online profiles and devices.
  • Limiting interactions with the abuser, both online and offline.

Resources for Help

• Teen Talk Textline: Text 215-703-8411 or call 866-825-5856 (1:00–9:00 PM) or visit their website
• Love is Respect: Text “loveis” to 22522 or visit loveisrespect.org.
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: Website: thehotline.org; Call: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233); Text: Text “START” to 88788
• Laurel House Hotline: Call 1-800-642-3150 for 24/7 support, including safety planning, counseling, and emergency shelter.
• Trusted adults: Talk to teachers, school counselors, or other trusted adults for guidance.

8 Tips for Surviving the Holidays

By Dr. Lorna Jansen

Many believe the holidays to be a time of joy, laughter, and good food. But, so often the reality is that you’re overwhelmed, tired, and extremely on edge. In order to successfully navigate your holiday to-do list, try these 8 steps:

1. Take a deep breath in and out. Repeat as needed. As stressful circumstances pop up (family conflict, extra bills, bad weather), remember to take a moment for yourself to just breathe deeply. Count in through your nose to 5 and out through your mouth to 5.
2. Consider your values. What matters most to you this time of year? Getting your shopping done early? Spending time with certain friends or families? Certain religious or spiritual observations or rituals? Whatever it is, be sure to keep your focus on the main things you value.
3. Prioritize. Consider what must get done versus what “should” get done. Maybe your house does not need to look like a spread from Home and Garden, or your gifts do not need to resemble individual works of art. Figure out which things you are hoping to get to that are really just extra sources of stress, and agree to let them go.
4. Plan. Look at your calendar. Which weeks are the busiest and when do you have time to address cards or buy gifts or help out in the community? Write down possible days on which to accomplish various activities and what you will do each day to reach your goals. Also, consider delegating some of your tasks to friends and family who can help.
5. Talk with your loved ones. Maybe your partner’s favorite part of the holidays is watching a movie with you on New Year’s Eve. Maybe you have a fun tradition with a friend or your kids. Prioritize and plan for those things your loved ones hold especially dear this time of year.
6. Set boundaries as needed. In order to preserve your sanity, you will have to say “no” to certain demands. Perhaps you’ll need to plan to see different friends or family members on different days or weeks. Maybe you usually host a holiday, but a new job or baby is making it difficult to do so. Give yourself the flexibility you need to do what’s best for you.
7. Practice gratitude. Even in the messy moments of life (wine on the carpet again?), there is always something to be grateful for: food to eat, a place to gather, people with whom to share your life. Share your thankful spirit with those around you.
8. Remember that nothing is perfect. No holiday meal, family event, or season will be picturesque and devoid of spills, tears, or melted candles. But, in the end, it is how we overcome difficult circumstances and support one another through hard times that truly matters.

STRESS LESS: EVERYDAY TIPS TO PROMOTE WELLNESS

by Dr. Brittnie Blanchard

Feeling overwhelmed by the weight of daily pressures? You’re not alone. As stress levels soar in our fast-paced lives, understanding its origins and impacts is more crucial than ever.

The stress response is a natural reaction to a perceived threat, or demand, that is rooted in the body’s central nervous system (CNS). The short-term activation of the CNS is beneficial, equipping us to respond to what comes across our paths. In the optimal amounts, stress may be positively associated with learning and high performance in areas like sports and work. However, repeated and prolonged stress can lead to less positive outcomes including the development and/or exacerbation of many mental and physical conditions, including depression and anxiety, among others.

So how does one begin to differentiate between good stress (“eustress”) and bad stress (“distress”), and how does one manage it? If the following symptoms are relatable, you might be experiencing prolonged stress response.

• Frequent/chronic physical symptoms (e.g., headaches, chest pain, stomach upset, sleeping problems, recurrent illness)
• Increased difficulty with emotion regulation
• Withdrawal from social supports and activities
• Things feel out of control/inability to relax OR numbness/autopilot mode
• Exhaustion

However, addressing your stress may be easier than you think and workable into your ongoing routines…

• Get enough sleep daily (children: 9-13 hours; teens: 8-10 hours; adults: 7-9 hours)
• Balanced diet
• Regular, consistent exercise
• Breathing techniques (Box Breathing, Belly Breathing)
• Social support
• Boosting positive affect (e.g., happiness, joy, contentment, enthusiasm) by scheduling in time for pleasurable activities on a regular basis. (Note: these may vary from person to person, so find what works best for you).

If you continue to feel overwhelmed and run down by stress, consult with a mental health provider. The psychologists and therapists at The Center are well-equipped to support clients through whatever life brings.