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2007 Grant - Lingler

Making Sense of Mild Cognitive Impairment:  An Investigation of Patient and Family Perspectives

Jennifer Hagerty Lingler, Ph.D.
University of Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

2007 New Investigator Research Grant

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is characterized by subtle changes in thinking that occur in an otherwise normally functioning older adult and is hypothesized to represent a transition period between normal aging and dementia. Although a significant amount of research related to MCI is currently taking place, a variety of interpretations and misunderstandings of the diagnosis exist and are prevalent among those living with disorder and their families. For this reason, they are living with considerable uncertainly about the future.

To better understand how individuals and their families make sense of an MCI diagnosis, Jennifer Lingler, Ph.D., will use this grant to conduct a large scale investigation on the subject. A minimum of 60 participants with MCI, along with their spouse or adult children, will be recruited to explore their personal interpretations of the diagnosis as well as their behavioral responses to proposed treatment options. 

Dr. Lingler will use her findings to develop an intervention that will minimize the existing misconceptions about MCI as well as promote informed health decision-making among affected individuals and their family members.