Abstract
The content and frequency of lifestyle needs and wishes of older adults with mild cognitive impairment
(MCI) and early dementia undergoing regular outpatient care were assessed to identify the characteristics
of their lifestyle needs and wishes. Participants ( N =37, 11 males and 26 females, mean age 80.6±5.50
years) included 17 older adults with MCI and 20 older adults with early dementia who regularly receive
outpatient treatment for forgetfulness. Semi-structured interviews were conducted on their daily life needs
and wishes. The responses were transcribed, and quantitative text analysis was conducted using the KH
Coder 3. The results indicated that 58.8% of MCI and 35.0% of early-stage dementia patients expressed
few needs other than those related to physical needs. Early-stage dementia patients compared to MCI patients had fewer needs related to negative emotions and no needs related to the relationship with their
spouse. On the other hand, all the participants expressed lifestyle wishes. The most frequent lifestyle
wishes in MCI and early dementia patients were maintaining or continuing their current lifestyle. However, early dementia was characterized by a lack of self-contained activities and enjoyment compared to
MCI. It is concluded that cognitive impairments and self-esteems damaged by the prolonged sense of
psychological debt might suppress lifestyle needs and wishes.
