Decisions, Decisions: African American Families' Responses to Mild Cognitive Impairment. (April 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Potter, Emma C.; Roberto, Karen A.; Brossoie, Nancy; Blieszner, Rosemary
• Other Names: Thorpe Roland J. guest-editor.; Whitfield Keith E. guest-editor.
• Is Part Of: Research on aging. Volume 39:Number 4(2017)
• Page Start: 476
• Page End: 500
• Publication Date: 2017-04
• Subjects: mild cognitive impairment -- African American caregivers -- life course -- social support -- qualitative research; Old age -- Periodicals; Gerontology -- United States -- Periodicals; 305.2605
• DOI: 10.1177/0164027516655581
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0164-0275

Abstract

African American families' experiences with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) have received little attention in the research literature. Guided by the life-course perspective, we analyzed qualitative interview data from members of 27 African American families including the person with MCI (PwMCI), a relative or friend who was highly involved in the PwMCI's daily life, and if available, a relative or friend who had at least monthly contact with the PwMCI. Findings uncovered variability in families' MCI awareness, assessment, and need for role changes; the importance of reaching out to trusted others; and honoring PwMCI's care preferences (e.g., who should provide care). Families held varying beliefs about engaging outside support; some families insisted on keeping all care within the family while others were open to the use of external services. We showcase how diagnosis acceptance and family decision-making are at the heart of how African American families respond to MCI.