Lifestyle Factors, Cognitive Functioning, and Functional Capacity in Older Adults

2021 ◽  
pp. 009141502110094
Author(s):  
Anna S. Ord ◽  
Sue-Mei Slogar ◽  
Scott W. Sautter
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Physical Exercise ◽  
Sleep Quality ◽  
Cognitive Functioning ◽  
Functional Capacity ◽  
Rating Scale ◽  
Lifestyle Factors ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Exercise Habits ◽  
The Relationship

Research suggests that clinical management of cognitive impairment can occur through interventions targeting lifestyle factors, such as physical exercise and sleep quality. The present study examined the associations among lifestyle factors (exercise and sleep quality), cognition, and functional capacity in older adults (ages 56–94) who completed an outpatient neuropsychological evaluation ( N = 356). Exercise habits and sleep quality were accessed using a self-report questionnaire and a clinical interview. Cognitive functioning was assessed using the Dementia Rating Scale-2 (DRS-2). Functional capacity was measured by the Texas Functional Living Scale (TFLS). Results indicated that physical exercise and sleep quality were positively associated with better cognitive functioning and functional capacity. Further research is needed to elucidate the relationship between lifestyle factors, cognition, and functional capacity in older adults.

scholarly journals Does Poor Sleep Quality Predict Functional Limitations?

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 427-427
Author(s):  
Elliot Friedman ◽  
Elizabeth Teas
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Sleep Quality ◽  
Physical Function ◽  
Functional Capacity ◽  
Gait Speed ◽  
The United States ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Poor Sleep ◽  
Linear Regression Models ◽  
Mobility Limitations

Abstract Previous work from our group (Friedman, 2016) linked sleep complaints to declines in mobility and risk of incident limitations over a 9-10 year follow-up among middle-aged and older adults. While these results suggest that poor sleep might undermine functional capacity, the self-report nature of the data leaves the robustness of this association unclear. The current study addressed this uncertainty by examining links between sleep and mobility limitations using subjective and objective assessments of both. Data were from the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) study: the biomarker sub-sample (N = 664) from the original cohort (collected 2004-2006) and the Refresher cohort (collected 2011-2013). Sleep was assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI; subjective) and 7 consecutive days of actigraphy (objective). Functional capacity was assessed by self-report of limitations and measured gait speed, grip strength, and chair stands. In linear regression models adjusting for demographic and health factors, lower PSQI scores (better sleep quality) predicted fewer reported limitations, stronger grip, quicker gait, and faster chair stands (all p<.01). Of the objective sleep metrics, time to fall asleep and time spent awake during the night predicted more self-report limitations, weaker grip (latency only), and slower gait speed and chair stands. These results extend our prior work by showing a) subjective sleep is linked to measured as well as self-reported physical function, and b) objective assessments of sleep predict reduced physical function, albeit to a lesser extent. They also brighten the spotlight on sleep as a key health determinant in older adults.

165 Sex differences in the relationship between self-reported sleep quality and frailty in South Florida older adult outpatients

SLEEP ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 44 (Supplement_2) ◽  
pp. A67-A67
Author(s):  
Sonya Kaur ◽  
Katalina McInerney ◽  
Mitchell Slugh ◽  
Annelly Bure ◽  
Marina Sarno ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Sex Differences ◽  
Sleep Quality ◽  
Grip Strength ◽  
Brain Research ◽  
Functional Independence ◽  
South Florida ◽  
Left Hand ◽  
Depression Status ◽  
The Relationship

Abstract Introduction Frailty, a multidimensional construct of decreased reserve is an important predictor of functional independence and quality of life in older adults. There is a growing body of evidence highlighting reduced sleep efficiency and sleep duration predicts frailty in older adults. However, the sex differences in these relationships have been understudied. Methods 253 participants (163) ranging in age from 50-92 years (mean= 67.59 years, S.D.= 9.22 years), underwent frailty assessment and completed the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). Statistical moderation was assessed using nonparametric bootstrapping. All models statistically controlled for age, education and depression status. Results Higher scores on the PSQI predicted higher levels of fatigue (β=1.87, 95% CI= 0.48-3.27) and higher grip strength with the left hand (β= 0.81, 95% CI= 0.85-1.53). These relationships were significantly moderated by sex (β=-0.77, p=0.05 & β=-0.52, p=0.01). Specifically, high scores on the PSQI predicted more fatigue stronger grip strength in men (β=1.11, 95% CI=0.41-1.81) and weaker grip strength in women (β=-0.25, 95% CI=-0.51--0.02). There was no association between scores on the ESS and any of the frailty measures. Conclusion The relationships between PSQI scores and measures of fatigue and grip strength were statistically moderated by sex. These differences are not explained by sex differences in overall sleep quality or baseline frailty. This is consistent with the literature emphasizing sex differences in the effects of risk/lifestyle factors. It is possible that the relationship between sleep quality and frailty is altered by additional hormonal factors and warrant further investigation. Support (if any) This research was supported by the Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Research Foundation

scholarly journals The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on wellbeing and cognitive functioning of older adults

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Sarah De Pue ◽  
Céline Gillebert ◽  
Eva Dierckx ◽  
Marie-Anne Vanderhasselt ◽  
Rudi De Raedt ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
At Risk ◽  
Sleep Quality ◽  
Cognitive Functioning ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Activity Level ◽  
The Impact

AbstractCOVID-19 took a heavy toll on older adults. In Belgium, by the end of August, 93% of deaths due to COVID-19 were aged 65 or older. Similar trends were observed in other countries. As a consequence, older adults were identified as a group at risk, and strict governmental restrictions were imposed on them. This has caused concerns about their mental health. Using an online survey, this study established the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on adults aged 65 years or older, and which factors moderate this impact. Participants reported a significant decrease in activity level, sleep quality and wellbeing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Depression was strongly related to reported declines in activity level, sleep quality, wellbeing and cognitive functioning. Our study shows that the COVID-19 pandemic had a severe impact on the mental health of older adults. This implies that this group at risk requires attention of governments and healthcare.

scholarly journals The Relationship Between Daily Rapid-Eye Movement Sleep and Cognitive Functioning in Older Adults

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 159-159
Author(s):  
Tiana Broen ◽  
Tomiko Yoneda ◽  
Jonathan Rush ◽  
Jamie Knight ◽  
Nathan Lewis ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Working Memory ◽  
Cognitive Functioning ◽  
Eye Movement ◽  
Rem Sleep ◽  
Cognitive Tests ◽  
Rapid Eye Movement ◽  
Targeted Interventions ◽  
The Impact ◽  
The Relationship

Abstract Previous cross-sectional research suggests that age-related decreases in Rapid-Eye Movement (REM) sleep may contribute to poorer cognitive functioning (CF); however, few studies have examined the relationship at the intraindividual level by measuring habitual sleep over multiple days. Applying a 14-day daily diary design, the current study examines the dynamic relationship between REM sleep and CF in 69 healthy older adults (M age=70.8 years, SD=3.37; 73.9% female; 66.6% completed at least an undergraduate degree). A Fitbit device provided actigraphy indices of REM sleep (minutes and percentage of total sleep time), while CF was measured four times daily on a smartphone via ambulatory cognitive tests that captured processing speed and working memory. This research addressed the following questions: At the within-person level, are fluctuations in quantity of REM sleep associated with fluctuations in next day cognitive measures across days? Do individuals who spend more time in REM sleep on average, perform better on cognitive tests than adults who spend less time in REM sleep? A series of multilevel models were fit to examine the extent to which each index of sleep accounted for daily fluctuations in performance on next day cognitive tests. Results indicated that during nights when individuals had more REM sleep minutes than was typical, they performed better on the working memory task the next morning (estimate = -.003, SE = .002, p = .02). These results highlight the impact of REM sleep on CF, and further research may allow for targeted interventions for earlier treatment of sleep-related cognitive impairment.

scholarly journals Cognitive Functioning and Late-Life Depression

2014 ◽  
Vol 20 (5) ◽  
pp. 461-467 ◽  
Author(s):  
Aaron M. Koenig ◽  
Rishi K. Bhalla ◽  
Meryl A. Butters
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Depressive Symptoms ◽  
Cognitive Functioning ◽  
Neuropsychological Assessment ◽  
Cognitive Deficits ◽  
Late Life ◽  
Cognitive Outcomes ◽  
Review Of The Literature ◽  
Late Life Depression ◽  
The Relationship

AbstractThis brief report provides an introduction to the topic of cognitive functioning in late-life depression (LLD). In addition to providing a review of the literature, we present a framework for understanding the heterogeneity of cognitive outcomes in this highly prevalent disorder. In addition, we discuss the relationship between LLD and dementia, and highlight the importance of regularly assessing cognitive functioning in older adults who present with depressive symptoms. If cognitive deficits are discovered during a neuropsychological assessment, we recommend referral to a geriatric psychiatrist or cognitive neurologist, for evaluation and treatment of the patient’s symptoms. (JINS, 2014, 20, 1–7)

A psychological pathway from insomnia to depression among older adults

2013 ◽  
Vol 25 (8) ◽  
pp. 1375-1383 ◽  
Author(s):  
Paul Sadler ◽  
Suzanne McLaren ◽  
Megan Jenkins
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Independent Living ◽  
Community Sample ◽  
Path Model ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Dysfunctional Beliefs ◽  
Psychological Mechanisms ◽  
Obstructive Sleep ◽  
The Relationship ◽  
Dysfunctional Beliefs About Sleep

ABSTRACTBackground: Higher levels of insomnia predict greater depression severity among older adults; however, the psychological mechanisms underlying this relationship are unclear. This study tested a path model that explored whether dysfunctional beliefs about sleep and hopelessness mediated the relationship from insomnia to depression. It was hypothesized that insomnia would predict depression, both directly and indirectly, via dysfunctional beliefs about sleep and hopelessness.Methods: A community sample of 218 independent-living Australian older adults aged from 65 to 96 years completed a self-report questionnaire package. From the initial 218 participants, 171 completed a measure of depression three months later.Results: Path analysis demonstrated that maladaptive sleep beliefs and hopelessness partly explained how insomnia influenced depression, irrespective of the presence of obstructive sleep apnea and/or restless legs syndrome.Conclusions: An older adult's beliefs about sleep and sense of hopelessness were important psychological factors that helped explain how insomnia related to depression.

Edentulism and Trajectories of Cognitive Functioning Among Older Adults: The Role of Dental Care Service Utilization

2019 ◽  
Vol 32 (7-8) ◽  
pp. 744-752 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sae Hwang Han ◽  
Bei Wu ◽  
Jeffrey A. Burr
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Cognitive Decline ◽  
Cognitive Functioning ◽  
Service Utilization ◽  
Dental Care ◽  
Care Service ◽  
Health Care Expenditures ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Dental Services

Objective: This study examined the associations between edentulism, dental care service utilization, and cognitive functioning trajectories among older adults. Method: Longitudinal data from the Health and Retirement Study (2006-2014) were employed to examine individuals aged 51 and older who were identified as having normal cognition at baseline ( N = 12,405). Cognitive functioning was measured with a modified version of the Telephone Interview for Cognition Status. Edentulism was self-reported as total tooth loss at baseline. Dental care service utilization was measured by self-report of having visited a dentist at least once during the previous 2 years. Results: The results indicated that edentulism and dental care service utilization were independently associated with cognitive decline during the observation period. Findings also showed that dental care service utilization moderated the association between edentulism and cognitive decline. Discussion: The findings suggested that providing access to dental services may promote cognitive health and potentially reduce health care expenditures.

Relationship Between Frailty and Depression Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults: The Mediating and Moderating Role of Social Support

2020 ◽  
Vol 60 (8) ◽  
pp. 1466-1475 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yaru Jin ◽  
Huaxin Si ◽  
Xiaoxia Qiao ◽  
Xiaoyu Tian ◽  
Xinyi Liu ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Social Support ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Depressive Symptoms ◽  
Rating Scale ◽  
Depression Scale ◽  
Community Dwelling ◽  
Linear Regression Models ◽  
Frailty Phenotype ◽  
Community Dwelling Older Adults ◽  
The Relationship

Abstract Background and Objectives Frailty is associated with depression in older adults and reduces their social support. However, the mechanism underlying such relationship remains unclear. We aim to examine whether social support acts as a mediator or moderator in the relationship between frailty and depression. Research Design and Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted among 1,779 community-dwelling older adults aged 60 and older. Frailty, social support, and depressive symptoms were measured by the Physical Frailty Phenotype, Social Support Rating Scale, and five-item Geriatric Depression Scale, respectively. Data were also collected on age, gender, years of schooling, monthly income, cognitive function, number of chronic diseases, physical function, and pain. Results Linear regression models showed that subjective support and support utilization, but not objective support, mediated and moderated the relationship between frailty and depressive symptoms. The Johnson–Neyman technique determined a threshold of 30 for subjective support, but not for support utilization, beyond which the detrimental effect of frailty on depressive symptoms was offset. Discussion and Implications Social support underlies the association of frailty with depression, and its protective role varies by type. Interventions on depression should address improving perceptions and utilization of social support among frail older adults rather than simply providing them with objective support.

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document