Dr Chandler @drmelaniechandler - This is such an important issue - and its multi-faceted. On the one hand, as you point out, it's critical for the person diagnosed with MCI to have a purpose - or find a new one if necessary. This can definitely be a challenge especially when the person is still reeling from the diagnosis and may be feeling more apathetic than usual. On the other hand, I think it's also critical that the spouse or partner of the person with MCI have - or find - a purpose OTHER than being a caregiver. So many of the responsibilities of daily life fall on the partner after the MCI diagnosis that for me, finding another sense of purpose outside that role has been just life-sustaining. It's more than just having a "support system." It's finding a purpose and passion that make you excited to wake up in the morning. Everybody is different, but for me, hanging on to some of my volunteer work and continuing to set aside time for my hobbies - like quilting and making stained glass - has gone a long way toward keeping me sane and somewhat balanced. Thanks so much for the excellent article.