Canadian Stroke Best Practice Recommendations: Vascular cognitive impairment, 7th edition practice guidelines update,...

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Geriatrics
• Public Health

Background:

• Vascular cognitive impairment (VCI) presents a significant challenge in stroke and aging populations.
• Existing guidelines require updates to reflect current evidence and patient perspectives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop comprehensive, evidence-based recommendations for the diagnosis and management of VCI.
• To integrate the lived experiences of individuals with VCI into clinical practice guidelines.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review of current evidence was conducted by an expert writing group.
• Recommendations were developed using a structured framework and validated methodology.
• Individuals with lived experience of VCI actively participated in all development stages.

Main Results:

• New and revised recommendations cover VCI definitions, screening, assessment, diagnosis, and management (pharmacological and non-pharmacological).
• The guidelines address secondary prevention, rehabilitation, and end-of-life care for VCI.
• A VCI journey map, created by individuals with lived experience, is included to enhance understanding and support.

Conclusions:

• The Canadian Stroke Best Practice Recommendations (CSPR) module emphasizes integrated, multidisciplinary care for VCI.
• These recommendations aim to improve awareness, support, and care for individuals with VCI and their families.
• Future research should address identified knowledge gaps in VCI diagnosis and management.