The Trajectory of Gait Speed Preceding Mild Cognitive Impairment

Abstract

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) represents an early clinical stage of cognitive impairment, considered distinct from normal aging, with the potential for further progression to Alzheimer disease or other dementias.¹ Predicting the earliest stages of cognitive impairment has important implications for initiating treatment and monitoring the progression of disease. Slowing of motor function is commonly observed in elderly patients and may be more pronounced in older persons with cognitive impairment compared with those who are cognitively intact.^2-5 Motor changes may precede the onset of MCI by years.^4,6 In addition, slower gait speed in those who are cognitively intact at baseline may be predictive of the subsequent onset of cognitive impairment.^6-8