Depression's Impact on Daily Functioning in Older Adults with Cognitive Impairment
Author Information
Author(s): McIntyre Thomas, Becker Jacqueline, Hackett Katherine, Chan Lili, Carnavali Fernando, Wisnivesky Juan, Curtis Laura, Federman Alex
Primary Institution: Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
Hypothesis
Does co-morbid depression moderate the association of cognitive impairment with impairments in everyday activities in older adults?
Conclusion
Depression significantly worsens the association of cognitive impairment with impairments in daily activities among older adults.
Supporting Evidence
- Cognitive impairment and depression often co-occur in older adults.
- 16% of participants had mild cognitive impairment, 5% had moderate-severe cognitive impairment, and 15% had depression.
- Moderate-severe cognitive impairment and severe depression were independently associated with impairments in daily activities.
Takeaway
Older people with both depression and cognitive problems have a harder time doing everyday tasks, so it's important to help them with both issues.
Methodology
Linear regression models were used to estimate the association of cognitive impairment and depression with counts of instrumental activities of daily living impairments.
Participant Demographics
Mean age was 67 years, 54% female, 35% Black, and 25% Hispanic.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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