Cognitive impairments: Why support is so rarely used!

Cognitive impairments: Why support is so rarely used!

A current study by the Digital Dementia Register Bavaria (digiDEM Bavaria) in collaboration with the Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg shows that people with mild cognitive impairments (MCI) rarely use outpatient support services. This study, which included a total of 913 people with cognitive impairments, found that the offers are in greater demand, especially among people with mild to moderate dementia.

Mild cognitive impairment is often a precursor to dementia, although cognitive decline is less pronounced in MCI. This means that those affected can in many cases continue to carry out everyday activities independently. Studies show that about 70% of people with MCI develop Alzheimer's dementia within five years. This fact represents a significant burden for family caregivers since most patients are cared for at home.

Low use of outpatient support services

Although there are important support offers, overall take-up is low. The most frequently used services are primary care (54.4%), home help (36.5%), outpatient care (30.4%) and psychosocial interventions (30.2%). A central point of the study was the lack of use of outpatient care services and day care by people with MCI. On average, only two outpatient support services were used in the last 30 days.

The reasons for this low usage are varied. Availability is often limited, there is a lack of knowledge about the offers, and many of those affected are afraid of stigmatization or are confronted with financial questions. What is particularly striking is that the availability of a level of care has a strong influence on the use of these offers. Patients' existing needs often go unheard, which underlines the need for early information about outpatient support services.

In addition, the symptoms of MCI, such as increased forgetfulness, problems following conversations or difficulty making decisions, show that both those affected and their relatives perceive a certain change. Early consultation with professionals is recommended to take appropriate measures in case of cognitive changes. Although MCI cannot be prevented, lifestyle changes can reduce the risks.

Risk factors and preventive measures

The strongest risk factors for MCI include age, the presence of the APOE e4 gene and various somatic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity. A variety of lifestyle-associated risk factors, such as lack of exercise and unhealthy diet, also play a role in the development of cognitive deficits. Regular physical activity and a balanced diet can be preventive measures.

The development of mobile digital technologies, such as smartphone and tablet apps, could help address these challenges in the treatment of cognitive impairment. These technologies could not only promote cognitive health, but also strengthen patients' health literacy by supporting preventive measures and allowing cognitive functions to be continuously monitored and recorded. Such innovations can help positively influence the course of Alzheimer's disease by facilitating early diagnosis and intervention.

Given that the diagnosability of mild cognitive disorders should be improved, preventive measures are important. Research into the challenges of interdisciplinary collaboration and the need for health literacy among those affected is essential. Preventive strategies that combine multiple dimensions could be crucial to improve the quality of life of those affected.