Cognitive Assessment of Marshallese People Using Quick Dementia Rating Scale
Author Information
Author(s): Azhar Gohar, Sharma Shakshi, Riklon Sheldon, Kabua Philmar M, McElfish Pearl, Wei Jeanne Y
Primary Institution: University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
Hypothesis
Cognition in the Marshallese population has been understudied, and this study aims to assess their cognitive abilities using the Quick Dementia Rating Scale.
Conclusion
The study found that older adult Marshallese in Arkansas face significant cognitive, behavioral, and functional impairments associated with higher risks of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.
Supporting Evidence
- 67% of older adults reported diabetes compared to 38% of younger adults.
- 67% of older adults had heart diseases, while only 9% of younger adults did.
- Cognitive assessment showed that 13% of older adults had moderate to severe memory difficulties.
- 7% of older adults had significant problems in orientation and decision-making.
- 60% of older adults reported anxiety or depression, compared to 26% of younger adults.
Takeaway
This study looked at how well older Marshallese people think and remember things, finding that many have serious problems compared to younger people.
Methodology
The Quick Dementia Rating Scale (QDRS) was used to assess cognition in 49 Marshallese subjects, including younger and older adults.
Limitations
The study may be limited by the small sample size and the specific population studied.
Participant Demographics
The study included 34 younger adults and 15 older adults from the Marshallese community.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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