Work

'What role should I play? ': A systematic review of the experiences of relatives caring for people with mild cognitive impairment

Year: 2025

Type: review

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Understanding the experiences of relatives caring for persons with mild cognitive impairment (PwMCI) helps healthcare professionals address caregivers' challenges and implement early interventions to slow cognitive decline. OBJECTIVE: To assess and synthesize qualitative research on the experiences of PwMCI caregivers. METHODS: A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, and PsycINFO identified studies on caregiving for PwMCI. Qualitative data synthesis followed the Thomas and Harden method. RESULTS: Eleven studies revealed six caregiving roles: spectator, struggler, avoider, loner, guardian, and helpless. Relatives faced complex emotional challenges, often neglecting their own needs and lacking professional support. The shift to caregiving roles led to varied coping strategies and emotional responses. CONCLUSIONS: The differences in caregiving roles highlight diverse needs and coping mechanisms. This understanding could help healthcare professionals provide targeted, role-specific support to address caregivers' unique emotional and practical challenges. PROSPERO PROTOCOL NUMBER: CRD42021289445.

Source: Geriatric Nursing

DOI: 10.1016/j.gerinurse.2025.103777

Authors: Jingya Ma, Huan Zhang, Zheng Li

Institution: Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College

Language: English

Topic: Dementia and Cognitive Impairment Research

Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,280