Cognitive Decline

A gradual reduction in cognitive abilities such as memory, attention, language, reasoning, and executive function that may occur as part of normal aging or as a symptom of neurological conditions such as mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia. Cognitive decline exists on a spectrum — mild age-related changes are typical, while more significant decline may indicate MCI or the onset of dementia. Designing technology for people experiencing cognitive decline requires accommodating changing abilities over time, supporting existing habits and routines rather than requiring new learning, and providing compensatory strategies that maintain independence and dignity.