Do service-users find the outcome of Mild Cognitive Impairment useful? A summary of Blatchford & Cook’s (2020) systematic review

Abstract

Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) is a common outcome following assessment of suspected dementia. However, it is unclear whether service-users perceive that being made aware is beneficial. The term itself is nebulous in terms of prognostic certainty and its utility for guiding interventions. This article summarises the systematic review conducted by Blatchford and Cook (2020) exploring research focused on service-users experiences of receiving the outcome of MCI and the impact of this upon them and their care partners. Service-user and care partner perspectives were shaped by the quality of information and support provided, and several factors shaped their experiences of being informed, including: personal perceptions and experiences, coping styles and living circumstance. The results suggested that clear information and quality support, tailored to service-user needs may improve the utility of the MCI outcome for service-users. The summary concludes by providing suggestions for enhancing service provision.