Developing Interventions to Address Subjective Cognitive Decline: Insights From a Co‐Design Study
Jed Montayre, Ka Man Carman Leung, Kay Kuo, Jasmine Montayre, Ivy Yan ZhaoBackground
Cognitive function plays a crucial role throughout an individual’s lifespan. With advancing ages, the cognitive ability normally deteriorates due to changes in brain and neuronal structures. The rate of deterioration differs across individuals. Previous studies have shown that people with SCD will experience increased cognitive decline, which may eventually develop into irreversible cognitive diseases such as MCI or even dementia. Our research had previously revealed that the prevalence of SCD among middle‐aged and older adults was 60.5%, surpassing that of other countries. Early identification and intervention targeting SCD can postpone the development of MCI and dementia.
Objective
To investigate the comprehension of SCD in middle‐aged and older people and to identify the reasons that influence their perceptions of cognitive decline and daily coping strategies.
Methods
A focus group discussion was utilized in the context of a qualitative study design. Thirty‐seven middle‐aged and older participants took part at the university. The discussion themes were selected based on the three highest‐rated responses from a previously conducted questionnaire survey by our team. These topics included (1) perceptions of memory deterioration, (2) the process of conveying information, and (3) the acquisition of information.
Results
All participants who had subjective cognitive complaints consistently agreed that cognitive decline leads to a deterioration in quality of life. They shared that cognitive decline can be affected by various factors beyond just age, as well as expressed their experiences of how cognitive decline has affected their lives and their coping strategies.
Conclusions
This study raises knowledge of middle‐aged and older persons’ perceptions and experiences about cognitive decline. Their knowledge can aid in formulating effective interventions and increasing public awareness of SCD, with the objective of fostering early intervention for those at risk of memory loss and postponing the start of irreversible cognitive decline.