It is important to stress that cognitive impairment in MS bears little resemblance to the intellectual decline in Alzheimer's disease. People with MS virtually never experience severe, progressive cognitive decline. Cognitive impairment in MS is typically mild and may stabilize at any time. Individuals with MS and their families should be aware of potential cognitive problems. Recognizing and learning about certain deficits can dispel misunderstandings about a person's apparent forgetfulness, carelessness, or seeming indifference.
Families can be supportive and help the person compensate.
Understanding deficits can alleviate fears about losing one's capacities. If cognitive impairment is suspected, this topic should be discussed with the person's doctor. In some cases, depression or medications can mimic cognitive problems. These can be treated separately. If deficits are found, the neuropsychologist can follow up to help individuals and their families cope with cognitive problems and to work on cognitive rehabilitation.