Mild Cognitive Impairment and Caregiver Burden: A Critical Review and Research Agenda

Abstract

Aging is a global phenomenon that is accompanied by an increase in the number of persons with non-communicable diseases including dementia. Since this development requires public health attention to meet the needs of the increasing numbers of elderly persons and their caregivers, scientific and clinical research in the area of dementia and cognitive disorders during the last decade has shifted to focus on the early diagnosis of the disease and, more specifically, on mild cognitive impairment (MCI). MCI is associated with severe consequences at the societal, individual and familial levels. However, compared to the wealth of studies in the area of caregiver burden and Alzheimer's disease, research in the area of MCI and caregiver burden is still developing. The aim of the present paper was to provide an analysis of the status of research regarding caregiver burden in MCI. This review indicated that despite important advances, gaps in the knowledge and understanding of caregiver burden in MCI remain. Only a clear delineation of the uniqueness of the concept of burden of care in MCI, accompanied by methodologically rigorous studies, will inform the development of interventions geared to reduce the burden of family members of persons with MCI.

Caregiver burden in mild cognitive impairment

“…The educational achievement in our cohort may be a reflection of this as well as a self-selection bias in those participants volunteering to take part in research studies. There is increasing recognition that there may be positive aspects of caregiving in MCI and this is something that would be valuable to explore in future studies (Werner, 2012).…”

A pilot randomized trial of two cognitive rehabilitation interventions for mild cognitive impairment: caregiver outcomes

“…Memory problems, as well as mild changes in functioning, may interfere with relational abilities and cause relationship strain (Roberto et al , ). In addition, the partner may experience decreased participation in their own activities and interests (Werner, ).…”

Independent Use of a Home-Based Telemonitoring App by Older Patients With Multimorbidity and Mild Cognitive Impairment: Qualitative Study

“…Additionally, a fundamentally high usability of the telemonitoring app and permanently available contact persons for technical questions are crucial to relieve the burden on informal caregivers. For older patients with MCI, these people are often the first point of contact for questions and usage problems, and difficulties would thus put them under additional strain [ 67 , 68 ].…”