Ab. No. 167 Association between Balance, Cognition and Quality of Life in Middle Aged Postmenopausal Women: A Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: The hormonal changes occurring in women during and after menopause transition have a relevant impact on physical performance and health-related quality of life. The use of challenging balance conditions to detect sub clinical risk of balance impairment has been reported in aging population. Postmenopausal women may experience a decline in cognitive skills in their daily lives. A decrease in functional performance and cognitive function may lead to poor quality of life in postmenopausal women. There are studies reporting that low physical function can predict low cognitive function during menopause. The aim of the study is to find out association between balance, cognition and quality of life of middle-aged postmenopausal women. Methods: Middle aged 102 postmenopausal females aged 40-60years were included for study. A cross sectional study was conducted among 102 postmenopausal women who had natural history of menopause were included. Any women who had hysterectomy, hormonal replacement therapy, any severe musculoskeletal impairment, abnormal hearing and vision were excluded. Data was collected using the menopause specific quality of life questionnaire, timed up and go test for dynamic balance and Montreal cognitive assessment used for level of cognition. Result: Total 102 postmenopausal females aged 49.66±3.46 years. Mean scores for TUG (9.27 + 1.25), MOCA (21.46 + 2.90) and MENQOL (40.37 + 8.34) were seen. Correlation was found between TUG and MOCA were (p=.009) (r=.928), between TUG and MENQOL were (p=.056) (r=.574) and MENQOL with MOCA were(p=-.031) (r=.756) statistically significant. Conclusion: There is positive relationship between balance, cognition and quality of life is seen in middle aged postmenopausal females. Implications: Assessing and intervening early in the functional performance is essential to maintain and preserve cognitive function in aging by tailored cognitive motor training with holistic approach to maintain quality of life.