Coping with cognitive decline in older adults with mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia: a scoping review

Objectives: This scoping review aims to map out the coping strategies among Persons with Mild Cognitive Impairment (PwMCI) and Persons with Mild Dementia (PwMD), identifying the facilitators and the barriers to the use of the strategies. Method: We conducted a systematic search of peer-reviewed studies in PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, and PsycINFO. Under the guidance of the Coping Circumflex Model, we identified coping strategies and then conducted thematic synthesis. Results: Our review of 17 studies revealed 13 themes for coping strategies among PwMCI and PwMD, categorized into problem-solving, positive emotional, problem avoidance, and negative emotional strategies. The strategies included utilization of reminders, active engagement in daily tasks, acceptance, and concealing memory problems. The themes for facilitators and barriers encompassed social interactions, assistance from informal care partners, support from professionals, and the influence of emotion. Conclusion: The review revealed the practical types of coping strategies and the influence of context on their use and development, highlighting the need for personalized coping strategies. These insights are crucial for developing tailored interventions to improve quality of life in PwMCI and PwMD. Future research should focus on how PwMCI and PwMD develop their effective coping strategies, considering their trajectory of cognitive decline.