Current activities can predict your risk for cognitive decline Original paper

Cognitive decline is a concern for many people, either in their own old age or when caring for loved ones who are affected. What factors can prevent this decline?

This cohort study included 727 Korean adults older than 65 years. All participants had normal cognitive function at baseline, and their cognition and possible predictive health factors were assessed every 2 years. The total follow-up duration was 14 years. Cognition was assessed using the Korean version of the Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE). Other possible predictors that were regularly assessed included education, income, living area, alcohol intake, and depression, among others.

After 14 years, 55% of participants maintained normal cognition, 20% had mild cognitive impairment, and 25% had moderate-to-severe cognitive impairment. Predictors of a steeper decline in cognition were heavy drinking, comorbidities, physical inactivity, lower education, lower socioeconomic status, lower handgrip strength, unintentional weight loss, higher depression scores, having more comorbidities, having no spouse, being dependent on others for daily activities, and living in a rural area.