Table 2 Participant Perspectives on Future Patient-Provider Discussions about Cognition (n = 341)

Yes or Maybe, Would Discuss Cognition with Provider (n = 250, 73.3%) Why or Why Not?

If experiencing cognitive problems

26.0%

I would if I were having problems but at this time I’m not so I would not

If a healthcare provider could help (e.g., possible treatments)

18.0%

Yes I would talk to my provider about my cognition if needed, as I believe that it perhaps could be something that could be addressed or corrected when detected early enough to prevent more serious problems later

If cognitive problems were getting worse

15.6%

I would if I thought it was getting really bad. At the moment after to talking to my family and friends I don’t seem to be any worse off than any of them

If cognitive problems were affecting daily life

8.4%

I would if I ever thought that it would interfere with my day to day living. Such as forget to turn off a stove burner or something basic like how to dress myself

Not sure/undecided

8.0%

I’m not sure i have never thought about it

If a family member/friend expressed concern

7.2%

When I am to the point to where others are telling me that something is wrong when I am around them then I will begin to have an interest in talking to my healthcare provider about what is happening

To get answers or a diagnosis (e.g., cognitive testing)

7.2%

I believe that it is normal to see a decline in cognitive skills as we age. It could also mean that there may be concern that correlates with testing for Alzheimer’s disease or dementia

To be proactive about cognitive health

5.6%

Yes, because it is part of my overall well-being

Trust in healthcare provider

5.2%

Sure because I trust my doctor and would not be afraid to talk to him about this. He might could help me

No, Would Not Discuss Cognition with Provider (n = 91, 26.7%) Why or Why Not?

Not experiencing cognitive problems

47.3%

Haven’t and will not as I don’t see any problem areas

Cognitive problems experienced aren’t serious enough

20.9%

I think the change is very minor, so I do not think it needs to be discussed. There is no short-term memory loss

Cognitive problems experienced are normal aging

18.7%

I really don’t feel that I should be concerned. The issues that I have I feel like they are just a regular decline that most people go through with aging

Embarrassment or fear about discussing cognitive problems

9.9%

I would never discuss any problems with my memory or thinking with a healthcare provider. Both of my parents had dementia in their 90s, and I do not want to discuss that with anyone. Nope, not gonna do that

Lack of trust or value in healthcare providers

8.8%

I haven’t seen a doctor in years and have no intention of seeing one. I am not interested in discussing my health with any sort of medical people

Healthcare provider does not discuss it at visits

5.5%

They have never asked any question regarding this issue