The impact of caring for someone with Mild Cognitive Impairment
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The psychological impact of caring for someone with Mild Cognitive Impairment: A qualitative study
IRAS ID
176859
Contact name
Polly Pulford
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Surrey
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 20 days
Research summary
Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) is a diagnosis that is becoming more widely researched, as it is thought to be a marker of the beginnings of dementia; people with MCI are at a higher risk of developing dementia in the future than those without MCI. Much of the existing research has focused on the neuropsychological symptoms and how the people with MCI have experienced the diagnosis and the changes that this has bought with it. However, the impact of the diagnosis on the spouses and family members is not well known.
In dementia, there has been a vast amount of research into the impact it has on the support networks of those individuals. This study aims to look at the impact right at the beginning of the process, for the relatives of those with MCI. It is important to understand the psychological impact of having a relative diagnosed with MCI, the changes this might bring about in the relationship, and what support people think would benefit them. This will give a better understanding of the needs of people who support those with MCI.
The study aims to investigate this using a qualitative approach. Spouses or close relatives of people with MCI will be identified via memory clinic appointments they have attended with their relative. They will be asked to take part in audio-recorded interviews of roughly one hour. Some of the material could be distressing, and therefore the CI will ensure participants are aware that they do not have to discuss anything they do not wish to. Interviews will take place in a clinic setting or in people’s homes, using Surrey & Border’s Lone Worker policy to ensure researcher safety.
REC name
East of England - Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
15/EE/0238
Date of REC Opinion
22 Jul 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion