Social connections and participation among people with mild cognitive impairment: barriers and recommendations

Objective Social connections and participation are essential for individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to prevent the progression of decline enhance their overall well-being. However, existing research has primarily focused on environmental barriers, overlooking personal factors interconnected nature these barriers. Moreover, there is a lack understanding regarding social challenges specific people MCI in low- middle-income countries. Therefore, this study aimed explore barriers that hinder among China investigate opportunities design appropriate supportive interventions. Methods Thirty-one (13 males 18 females; mean age = 82.74 years, SD 7.69; MoCA score 21.26, 2.44) 13 caregivers were recruited attend focus groups. In addition, 10 therapists interviewed using semi-structured interview guide. Focus groups interviews audio-recorded, transcribed, analyzed framework analysis approach. Results We found ability build affected by mobility challenges, intensive grandparenting responsibilities, availability suitable activities, feelings exclusion closed-minded community environment. Personal reasons, such as lower efficacy, inability find family discourage from participation. The digital literacy depends motivation learn use tools; who live have higher than those living care centers. achieve perceived benefits, costs technology use, influence. Conclusion Multidimensional initiatives needed address connections, participation, adoption MCI. This includes organizing engaging promoting awareness education importance exploring technology-based interventions improve memory storytelling abilities. These efforts can create environment empower participate actively interactions, enhancing