Predominant Objective Cognitive Function Groups and their Association with Risk Factors in Older Adults: Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: The epidemiological characterization of the predominant population groups by cognitive function allows supporting health policies to prevent dementia in Older Adults (OA). Objective: To analyze if there are association among predominant cognitive function groups and lifestyle factors, comorbidity and motor function in OA. Materials and Methods: Cross-sectional study with a probabilistic sample of insured OA, >60 years old of either sex. Sociodemographic, habits, comorbidities and motor function data were the risk factors. Data for hierarchical cluster analysis were subjective and objective cognitive function, sex and academic level. Cognitive function from population groups defined according to DSM-5, and their association with risk factors. Results: A sample of 350 OA, 65 ± 7.4 years old. Cluster analysis grouped four groups: i) without Neurocognitive Disorder (NCD), ii) with major NCD, iii and iv) with minor NCD in OA ≥70 years and <70 years. The factors associated with major NCD were unqualified work, Living Alone (LA), Diabetes Mellitus (DM), Hypertension (HT), reduced March Speed (MS), frailty and alteration of Activities of Daily Life (ADL). The minor NCD >70 years: unqualified work, LA, DM, frailty and alterations in ADL; and finally, minor NCD <70 were unqualified work, LA, DM, HT, dyslipidemia, obesity, cardiac diseases and hypothyroidism. Physical activity was a protector for the three groups. The likelihood value for major NCD had lower values than the model soft heminor NCD groups. Conclusions: There are association among lifestyle factors, comorbidity, and motor function for protection and risk for the predominant cognitive function groups.