Subjective cognitive impairment : Current Opinion in Psychiatry (original) (raw)
GERIATRIC PSYCHIATRY: Edited by Orestes Forlenza and Claudia Cooper
Professor of Psychiatric Epidemiology and Clinical Informatics, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK
Correspondence to Professor Robert Stewart, Section of Epidemiology (Box 60), Institute of Psychiatry, De Crespigny Park, London SE5 8AF, UK. Tel: +44 0 20 7848 0136; fax: +44 0 20 7848 5450; e-mail: [email protected]
Abstract
Purpose of review
To describe the recent (2011–2012) literature relevant to subjective cognitive impairment (SCI), focusing principally on studies of this symptom in older age groups. This is an issue of growing importance: although the symptom itself is controversial in older people because of variable associations with objective cognitive impairment, it remains one of the few presenting complaints which may identify people experiencing early cognitive decline.
Recent findings
Several neuroimaging studies confirm earlier reports of associations between SCI and underlying abnormalities whereas those between subjective and objective cognitive function remain heterogeneous. Several studies now highlight the fact that, regardless of underlying associations, SCI as a symptom is associated with significant concern but is something for which older people rarely seek help.
Summary
Neuroimaging findings suggest that older people may be more aware of underlying brain changes than was previously apparent or than can be detected using conventional neuropsychological assessments. However, not all of these brain changes are necessarily progressive or neurodegenerative. At least some attention should be paid to interventions for what is a common, often distressing, but underreported symptom.
© 2012 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc.