The article discusses the diagnosis and management of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), a condition that lies between normal aging and dementia. MCI is characterized by cognitive decline that is not severe enough to interfere with daily activities. The prevalence of MCI in adults aged 65 and older is 10-20%, with risk increasing with age and men being at higher risk. MCI is associated with an increased risk of developing dementia, though the annual conversion rate varies widely. Current evidence suggests that no medications are effective for MCI, and treatment should focus on reducing cardiovascular risk factors and preventing stroke. Aerobic exercise, mental activity, and social engagement may help reduce the risk of further cognitive decline. The article also discusses the evaluation of patients with suspected MCI, including a comprehensive history and physical examination, cognitive function assessments, and laboratory testing to identify potentially reversible causes of MCI. Neurological and psychiatric evaluations are important to rule out other conditions such as depression or stroke. Diagnostic testing, including neuroimaging and laboratory tests, may help identify the underlying cause of MCI, though these are not routinely recommended for clinical use. Pharmacologic treatment for MCI is not supported by evidence, and no FDA-approved medications are available. Vascular risk factor control, including blood pressure management, is important to reduce the risk of progression to dementia. Behavioral interventions such as aerobic exercise and mental activity may have small but beneficial effects on cognitive function in older adults with MCI. The prognosis for MCI is uncertain, with some patients showing improvement in cognition over time, while others may progress to dementia. Risk factors for progression include older age, fewer years of education, stroke, and diabetes. The article emphasizes the importance of counseling patients and their families about the risks and benefits of interventions, as well as the need for lifestyle modifications to reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Overall, the management of MCI requires a multidisciplinary approach, with a focus on early detection, prevention of further cognitive decline, and support for patients and their caregivers.The article discusses the diagnosis and management of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), a condition that lies between normal aging and dementia. MCI is characterized by cognitive decline that is not severe enough to interfere with daily activities. The prevalence of MCI in adults aged 65 and older is 10-20%, with risk increasing with age and men being at higher risk. MCI is associated with an increased risk of developing dementia, though the annual conversion rate varies widely. Current evidence suggests that no medications are effective for MCI, and treatment should focus on reducing cardiovascular risk factors and preventing stroke. Aerobic exercise, mental activity, and social engagement may help reduce the risk of further cognitive decline. The article also discusses the evaluation of patients with suspected MCI, including a comprehensive history and physical examination, cognitive function assessments, and laboratory testing to identify potentially reversible causes of MCI. Neurological and psychiatric evaluations are important to rule out other conditions such as depression or stroke. Diagnostic testing, including neuroimaging and laboratory tests, may help identify the underlying cause of MCI, though these are not routinely recommended for clinical use. Pharmacologic treatment for MCI is not supported by evidence, and no FDA-approved medications are available. Vascular risk factor control, including blood pressure management, is important to reduce the risk of progression to dementia. Behavioral interventions such as aerobic exercise and mental activity may have small but beneficial effects on cognitive function in older adults with MCI. The prognosis for MCI is uncertain, with some patients showing improvement in cognition over time, while others may progress to dementia. Risk factors for progression include older age, fewer years of education, stroke, and diabetes. The article emphasizes the importance of counseling patients and their families about the risks and benefits of interventions, as well as the need for lifestyle modifications to reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Overall, the management of MCI requires a multidisciplinary approach, with a focus on early detection, prevention of further cognitive decline, and support for patients and their caregivers.