Development and testing of a neuropsychiatric symptoms model in mild cognitive impairment

Neuropsychiatric symptoms are prevalent in individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and have a signifi cant detrimental eff ect on health and quality of life. Identifying factors that contribute to their occurrence may enable prompt treatment and intervention. The current study entails the development and testing of a biopsychosocially based model to assist nurses in the identifi cation of individuals with MCI who are most likely to experience symptoms of depression, apathy, and/or anxiety. Factors within the biological and sociodemographic domains of the Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in MCI (NPSMCI) model were tested using multivariate logistic regression analyses. Findings suggest that age, presence of an e4 allele of the apolipoprotein E gene, living situation, and degree of comorbid illness were associated with the occurrence of symptoms of depression and apathy. Further testing and refi nement are necessary, but the fi ndings provide guidance to nurses and alert them to assess individuals most likely to experience these symptoms.