The American Academy of Neurology recommend regular exercise for mild cognitive impairment

The American Academy of Neurology (AAN) have updated their clinical practice guidelines recommending that mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is “treated” with regular exercise as part of an overall program.  The guidelines were updated following a systematic review of the latest scientific evidence on mild cognitive impairment.

The American Academy of Neurology state that there is strong evidence to suggest that MCI can lead to dementia, although not everyone with MCI will go on to develop dementia.  The AAN report that individuals aged 65 and over with MCI have a 7.5% risk of developing dementia during the first year following diagnosis and that by the third year that risk increases by around 20%. 

The new guidelines recommend that individuals with MCI should engage in regular exercise as part of an overall program, the evidence suggests that exercising just twice a week can help improve the memory of those with MCI. 

NOTE:  Symptoms of mild cognitive impairment include a slight but noticeable and measurable decline in cognitive abilities including memory and thinking skills.