Everyday function profiles in prodromal stages of MCI: Prospective cohort study

Abstract Introduction The nature and course of limitations in everyday function in the early clinical stages of cognitive decline is not well known. Methods We compared complex everyday functional profiles at baseline in 59 community‐dwelling older individuals with normal cognitive performance who went on to develop incident mild cognitive impairment (MCI) (“pre‐MCI”) with 284 older individuals who remained cognitively normal over follow‐up. Results The mean number of limitations on complex everyday function at baseline was 3.1 ± 3.0 in the 59 pre‐MCI cases and 2.0 ± 2.4 in the 284 normal controls ( P = .003). Pre‐MCI cases had limitations in traveling, entertaining, remembering appointments, and hobbies compared to normal controls. A progressive increase in mild limitations on complex everyday function preceded the incidence of MCI (mean change: pre‐MCI 1.9 ± 3.6 vs normal controls 0.5 ± 2.7, P < .001). Discussion Prodromal stages of MCI are associated with progressive mild limitations in complex activities of daily living.