The aim of the study is to compare coping behavior patterns and memory-compensation strategies in older adults with objectively identified and subjective cognitive impairments. Materials and methods: the cross-sectional study included 108 participants (23.1% men; median age = 72 years). The examination consisted of an assessment of cognitive functions (Mini-Mental State Examination, Frontal Assessment Battery, Clock Drawing Test, Wechsler Memory Scale, Addenbrooke’s Cognitive Examination) and stress-coping strategies (Ways of Coping Questionnaire). For the analysis of categorical data, the following methods were used: Pearson’s χ² test (for contingency tables), Fisher’s exact test (for small expected frequencies), and the z-test with Bonferroni correction for multiple pairwise comparisons. Statistical analysis of quantitative variables was performed using nonparametric tests at a significance level of p≤0,05. The Spearman correlation coefficient was applied to evaluate correlations. Results: participants with objective cognitive impairment demonstrated lower scores on all cognitive tests and less frequent use of active, problem-oriented coping strategies compared with individuals reporting only subjective complaints. Increasing age was associated with lower neuropsychological test scores. Higher cognitive functioning correlated positively with the use of planning and self-control strategies. In both groups, external memory compensation techniques—such as notes, lists, and spatial organization—were most commonly applied. Conclusion: the findings indicate that a decline in cognitive resources is accompanied by reduced use of active coping strategies and greater reliance on external memory aids. These patterns reflect adaptive behavior restructuring in late life and provide a basis for further investigation of psychological mechanisms that help maintain autonomy in older adults with cognitive impairment.