Home/community-based interventions to improve function in persons with mild cognitive impairment/early dementia

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Neuroscience
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or early dementia face a long-term trajectory of disability.
• There is a need for effective interventions to enhance function in this population.
• Home and community-based interventions offer a promising approach.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the literature on home/community-based interventions for physical and executive function in persons with MCI/early dementia.
• To identify effective intervention components and strategies.
• To highlight gaps in current research.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search conducted from 2007-2020 across PubMed, CINAHL Plus, and PsycINFO.
• Inclusion of 18 eligible studies categorized into cognitive training-only, multicomponent, and physical activity-only interventions.
• Analysis of intervention characteristics and outcomes related to functional improvement.

Main Results:

• Effective interventions incorporated visual/written elements, technology, caregiver support, and modified frequency/duration.
• Simulated Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) were used to improve function.
• Both objective and subjective measures assessed cognitive function improvements.

Conclusions:

• Multicomponent interventions, incorporating specific elements, show promise for improving function in MCI/early dementia.
• Future research should address diversity by incorporating race/ethnicity and socioeconomic status measures.
• Optimizing intervention delivery is crucial for enhancing daily living activities.