“I'm his brain”: A qualitative study of care partners supporting the inner strength of persons living with mild cognitive impairment

BACKGROUND: Despite the need, care partners of persons living with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) use supportive services less. The unique needs of care partners to persons living with MCI are not well described. This study explores how care partners support the inner strength of persons newly diagnosed with MCI. METHODS: Nine dyads of persons living with MCI and their care partners completed semi-structured interviews, analyzed according to the Listening Guide methodology. RESULTS: Care partners described supporting inner strengths of persons living with MCI by carrying the cognitive load and being reliable. Reconceptualizing identity was foundational. Across themes, care partners needed simultaneous support for themselves. DISCUSSION: This study represents the perspectives of a well-defined group of care partners to persons living with MCI. Eliciting the perspectives of underrepresented care partners and equitable access to MCI diagnosis are essential for future research. Dyadic supportive services tailored for MCI using a strengths-based approach are needed. Highlights: Care partners to persons living with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) are unique. Care partners support inner strength of persons living with MCI and need simultaneous support. Care partners reconceptualize their identities, are reliable, and carry cognitive load. Methods for eliciting perspectives of underrepresented care partners are needed. Supportive services tailored for MCI using a strengths-based approach are needed.