Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Qualitative Exploration of Older Adult’s Understanding, Concerns and Expectations

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.