Early-Stage Cognitive Impairment: A Social Work Practice and Research Agenda

Abstract

With the current emphasis on early diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment or dementia such as Alzheimer's disease, it is increasingly common to receive the diagnosis of impairment before functioning is seriously compromised. People in the early stages of cognitive loss experience distress related to their current and future functioning and yet are capable of participating in psychosocial treatment or support. Although most published studies deal with services for caregivers rather than direct practice with the cognitively impaired person, there is a growing body of clinical and research reports on psychosocial interventions offered directly to people with early cognitive loss. These interventions are aimed at alleviating the stress, depression, and anxiety while promoting a positive outlook. Gerontological social work practitioners and researchers are well positioned to further develop, implement, and evaluate these promising intervention approaches with early-stage cognitive loss.