Balance and cognitive decline in older adults in the cardiovascular health study

• DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afab038
• Publication Date: 2021-02-07T20:07:35Z
• Authors: Claire C Meunier; Ellen Smit; Annette L Fitzpat...; Michelle C Odden
• Keywords: Cognitive Decline; Cardiovascular Health

Abstract Background Previous studies have demonstrated an association between gait speed and cognitive function. However, the relationship balance cognition remains less well explored. This study examined cross-sectional longitudinal of decline in older adults. Methods A cohort 4,811 adults, aged ≥65 years, participating Cardiovascular Health Study was followed for 6 years. Modified Mini-Mental State Examination (3MSE) Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST) were used to measure cognition. Tandem measures evaluate balance. Regression models adjusted demographics, behavioural disease factors. Results Worse independently associated with worse analysis. Longitudinally, participants ≥76 years poorer had a faster rate after adjustment co-variates: −0.97 points 3MSE per year (95% confidence interval (CI): −1.32, −0.63) compared good There no change among adults <76 (P value age interaction < 0.0001). DSST scores reflected −0.21 CI: −0.37, −0.05) greater when co-variates. In Cox proportional hazard models, higher risk being cognitively impaired over follow-up visits (adjusted HR:1.72, 95% 1.30, 2.29). Conclusions Future should standing as potential screening technique identify individuals at decline. Furthermore, better understanding pathophysiological link may inform strategies prevent