[The Community Pharmacy in the Early Detection of Mild Cognitive Impairment. Warning Signs].

Cognitive dysfunction and dementia in the elderly population constitute a significant health problem due to their magnitude and seriousness. Patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) are at increased risk of developing some form of dementia, including Alzheimer disease. Epidemiological studies support the existence of preventable risks for cognitive impairment: vascular factors and lifestyle-related factors. The aim is to detect possible cases of cognitive impairment in people aged over 55 years in the community pharmacy area. Community pharmacists work in close contact with the population, especially chronic patients who periodically collect their medication in community pharmacies. Consequently, these health professionals can be trained to detect the most frequent warning signs and symptoms and to refer these individuals to the doctor for an early diagnosis of MCI.