Description: Early diagnosis of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) is essential for preventing or delaying dementia, as lifestyle modifications can potentially prevent up to 40% of dementia cases. Recent advances in treatments, including those studied at the National University Hospital, have shown promise in altering the progression of early Alzheimer’s Disease. However, effective detection of MCI remains a challenge, particularly within primary care settings, due to limitations in sensitivity and resource constraints.
the PITCH study focuses on implementing the Quick Dementia Rating Scale (QDRS) in Community Health Posts (CHPs) to improve the detection of MCI among seniors. The QDRS is a highly sensitive, self-administered questionnaire that captures key symptoms of cognitive disorders and is currently used in clinical settings worldwide. By utilizing CHPs and their community care teams, we aim to streamline the detection and referral process, enhancing access to preventive programs focusing on modifiable risk factors.
This study also involves developing a collaborative implementation strategy to improve MCI detection rates in the community, facilitating opportunities for preventative care and healthier aging among community-dwelling seniors. Our ultimate goal is to enhance early detection, enabling timely interventions and better management of cognitive health.
