Mild Cognitive Impairment: A qualitative exploration of older adults' understanding, concerns and expectations

Abstract

Background: With an increasing drive to diagnose dementia, more people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) will be identified. It is not known how best to manage those with MCI.Aims: To examine older people’s understanding of MCI, explore attitudes towards disclosure of a hypothetical diagnosis of MCI and the experience of receiving a diagnosis of MCI.Methods: Qualitative study using thematic analysis of in depth, semi-structured interviews in cognitively intact older people (n7) and those following a diagnosis of MCI (n6).Results: In a hypothetical scenario older people expressed a wish for the honest disclosure of a diagnosis of MCI. Although participants thought that memory loss in old age is expected and may be preventable, they described associated stigma. Patients with MCI who prompted their own referral for memory assessment acknowledged and better understood the condition. Those who acknowledged MCI displayed both practical and emotional coping strategies.Conclusions: Clinical pathways for MCI should be patient centered and reflect the views and experience of older service users