Abstract
Aims: To examine whether self-reported memory problems and cognitive performance are associated with the ability to perform Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL), and whether patterns of associations are the same among men and women.Material and methods: The participants included a random sample of 75-year-old people in Copenhagen County (n = 397, participation rate 73%). IADL were measured by seven items according to tiredness and need of help. Cognitive components were measured by a nine-item self-rated memory scale and by the tests Digit Span, Digit Symbol, Word Fluency, Visual Reproduction, and Raven's Progressive Matrices.Major findings: We found different patterns of association for men and women. More 75-year-old men with reported memory problems also reported problems with IADL compared to men with fewer memory problems. Women with poor cognitive performance reported more problems with IADL compared to women with better cognitive performance.Principal conclusions: The IADL tasks with most significant associations with memory and cognitive performance were “use public transportation” and “manage economy”. These two IADL tasks are complex and involve orientation and procedural skills that might be affected very early in the dementing process. Consequently, these two IADL tasks might be incorporated in the screening procedure for dementia in elderly community dwellers.
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