Major Neurocognitive Disorder

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Major Neurocognitive Disorder

Medically reviewed · Ratel Health editorial team · Sunday, 16 August 2026

A condition (formerly called dementia) involving significant decline in one or more cognitive domains that interferes with independence in everyday activities.

Overview

Major neurocognitive disorder, previously referred to as dementia, involves significant decline from a previous level of functioning in one or more cognitive domains, such as memory, language, or executive function, sufficient to interfere with independence in everyday activities.

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms can include memory loss, difficulty with language or problem-solving, disorientation, and changes in mood or behavior, with severity and pattern varying by underlying cause. Experiencing one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that a person has this condition. Diagnosis requires an appropriate clinical evaluation.

Causes and Risk Factors

Common causes include Alzheimer’s disease, vascular changes, Lewy body disease, and other neurodegenerative or medical conditions; the exact cause varies by individual.

Diagnosis

A diagnosis should be made by a qualified healthcare professional following a comprehensive clinical assessment. Clinicians may use established diagnostic frameworks such as DSM-5-TR and/or ICD-11 as part of a comprehensive assessment.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the individual’s symptoms, clinical history, severity, age, co-occurring conditions, and other relevant factors.

Psychotherapy

Cognitive rehabilitation, structured routines, and caregiver support programs may help manage symptoms and support functioning.

Medication

Certain medications are FDA-approved for some causes of major neurocognitive disorder and may modestly help with symptoms; they do not reverse the underlying condition. Medication decisions should be made with a qualified prescribing healthcare professional. Do not start, stop, or change a prescribed medication based solely on information on this page.

Living With Major Neurocognitive Disorder

Safety planning, consistent routines, and caregiver support are often central to care as the condition progresses.

When to Seek Professional Help

Professional evaluation may be appropriate if symptoms persist, worsen, cause significant distress, or interfere with work, school, or relationships.

Emergency Situations

If a person may be in immediate danger, is experiencing a medical or psychiatric emergency, or may harm themselves or another person, seek immediate assistance through appropriate local emergency services.

Outlook

The course depends on the underlying cause; many forms are progressive, though the rate and pattern of decline vary considerably.

Related Conditions

Mild Neurocognitive Disorder

A condition involving modest decline in one or more cognitive domains that does not significantly interfere with independence in everyday activities.

Alzheimer’s Disease

A progressive neurodegenerative disease and the most common cause of major neurocognitive disorder (dementia), primarily affecting memory and thinking.

Vascular Dementia

A form of major or mild neurocognitive disorder caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, often following strokes or chronic vascular disease.

Lewy Body Dementia

A form of major or mild neurocognitive disorder involving abnormal protein deposits (Lewy bodies) in the brain, causing cognitive, motor, and visual symptoms.

Frontotemporal Dementia

A form of major or mild neurocognitive disorder involving progressive degeneration of the frontal and temporal lobes, often causing early changes in behavior or language.

Medical Information Disclaimer

Ratel Health provides general educational information and does not provide medical diagnosis, treatment, or individualized medical advice. Information on this page is not a substitute for evaluation or care from a qualified healthcare professional. Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or another person, or to start, stop, or change treatment or medication without consulting an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.

References

  • American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR).
  • National Institutes of Health.
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
  • World Health Organization. International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision.