[A follow-up study on cognitive changes of mild cognitive impairment in the elderly].

Objective To observe and assess the cognitive changes of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in the elderly. Methods A cohort study design was conducted among 47 patients with MCI and 21 control selected from the same convalescent camp, Montreal cognitive assessment ( MoCA ), mini mental state examination (MMSE)and clock drawing test (CDT) were performed to all subjects at the onset of study and 12 months later. Results The score of MMSE, CDT, MoCA and its subitems including visuospatial skill and delayed recall of MCI group were lower than the baseline afer12 months, with significantly decline in the score of MoCA( P= 0. 041 )and delay recall (P = 0. 003 ). There was no obvious difference in the score of control between the baseline and that afer12 months. Conclusion The decline of delayed recall occurred early and significantly, which may be a predictor in the conversion of mild cognitive impairment to dementia. Key words: Mild Cognitive Impairment;  Cognition;  Neuropsychology;  Follow-up Studies