Rationale and design of a multidomain lifestyle program for mild cognitive impairment

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Public Health
• Gerontology

Background:

• Lifestyle interventions can prevent or delay dementia by addressing modifiable risk factors.
• Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) lacks sufficient evidence-based, accessible interventions.
• Existing programs often fail to holistically address the lived experience of MCI.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce the Charlie and Harriet Shaffer Cognitive Empowerment Program (CEP) as a novel, multidomain lifestyle intervention for MCI.
• To describe the co-design process and conceptual framework underpinning the CEP.
• To highlight the CEP's potential to enhance the evidence base for lifestyle interventions and develop biomarkers for MCI.

Main Methods:

• The CEP was developed through a co-design process involving patients, families, clinicians, researchers, and industry professionals.
• A conceptual framework guides the CEP's assessments and interventions, addressing the holistic experience of living with MCI.
• The program is structured around four cores: Therapeutic Programs, Technology, Built Environment, and Innovation Accelerator.

Main Results:

• The CEP integrates therapeutic programs, technology, built environment considerations, and research innovation.
• The program offers comprehensive assessment and tailored interventions/support for individuals with MCI.
• The co-design approach ensures the program holistically addresses the multifaceted experience of MCI.

Conclusions:

• The CEP represents a significant advancement in non-pharmacological approaches for managing mild cognitive impairment.
• This multidomain lifestyle program has the potential to improve quality of life and empower individuals with MCI.
• The CEP's unique structure can contribute to developing lifestyle biomarkers for early MCI detection and intervention efficacy measurement.