AbstractOlder people living with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) have a slight but noticeable decline in their cognitive function, though do not meet the diagnostic criteria for dementia. MCI is controversial, with some saying it is a condition that does not require diagnosis, and others stating that it is a genuine clinical syndrome. Many people with MCI will improve, and most will not progress to dementia. Managing co‐morbidities and exercising are likely to be the best treatment options. With limited evidence for effective interventions and uncertainty as to the prognostic value of the condition, the benefit of diagnosing MCI remains unclear.