Cognitive Impairment

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Cognitive impairment can cause problems with a person’s thinking, communication, understanding or memory. It might be a short-term problem or a permanent condition. It can be difficult to know how to look after someone with cognitive impairment, but help is available.

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What is cognitive impairment?

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Cognitive impairment is not an illness, but a description of someone's condition. It means they have trouble with things like memory or paying attention. They might have trouble speaking or understanding. And they might have difficulty recognising people, places or things, and might find new places or situations overwhelming.

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Family and friends might notice that someone with cognitive impairment is confused, or agitated, or very moody. They might notice a change in their speech or behaviour, or that they have difficulty with their usual daily tasks.

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Cognitive impairment can come and go. In this situation, it is often called delirium. Delirium can be a sign of serious medical problems.

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Cognitive impairment can be mild, or severe, or anything in between.

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Causes of cognitive impairment

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There are many causes of cognitive impairment. Some causes of short-term or reversible cognitive impairment include:

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• infections, such as a urinary tract infection or pneumonia

• vitamin deficiency

• dehydration

• reactions to medications

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Some causes of long-term or permanent cognitive impairment include:

• dementia

• stroke

• brain injury

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Source:  https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/cognitive-impairment