Unpacking the Drive: Insights into Lifestyle Shifts Among Older Adults Facing Frailty and Cognitive Challenges

Lifestyle modifications have been shown to be beneficial in addressing frailty and mild cognitive impairment in older adults. The question that remains is how to effectively motivate lifestyle adaptations among the elderly population experiencing frailty and Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). We performed queries in digital literature databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Reviews, ProQuest, and grey literature to identify articles published in English from January 2010 to October 2023. This analysis emphasized studies utilizing qualitative research methods. We gathered information on the year of publication, geographic location, research objectives, study population, interventions utilized, challenges faced, motivations, and preferences documented in the studies. From a total of 5226 articles identified, after removing duplicates and conducting title and abstract evaluations, 253 articles were selected. Ultimately, we included fourteen articles for a comprehensive analysis at the conclusion of the review process. The two primary themes that emerged from this review were intrinsic and extrinsic influences on motivations and challenges to lifestyle modifications. The most frequently cited motivators were the perceived advantages of lifestyle interventions and self-efficacy. Participants encountered several barriers, such as perceived negative consequences of interventions, lack of awareness, preexisting impairments (physical or mental), and inadequate social support. Motivation and impediments to lifestyle changes in older adults primarily stemmed from intrinsic factors like perceived intervention benefits, self-efficacy, knowledge, family commitment, and existing impairments. It is crucial to empower older adults to navigate these challenges with assistance from healthcare professionals, community resources, and family support.