Cognitive impairment occurs when there is a problem with
perceiving, thinking, or remembering. Strokes are a common cause of cognitive
impairment. Other causes include head injuries and some chronic diseases, such
as sickle cell disease or multiple sclerosis.
Cognitive impairment may cause difficulties with:
- Memory, especially short-term
memory.
- Problem solving.
- Attention span, especially in
a mental task such as a math calculation.
- Expressing oneself, such
as finding the right words to use in a conversation.
Therapy may help a person make the most of his or her abilities.