Associations of Subjective Cognition With Community Participation and Health Conditions in Middle-Aged and Older Adults

Abstract

Understanding factors associated with subjective cognition in middle-aged and older adults is important. The objective of this study was to investigate the extent to which community participation, health conditions, and demographics increase the risk of subjective cognitive decline (SCD) in adults aged 45 and older, as well as how these factors are associated with self-perceived executive ability in those with SCD. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 93 community-dwelling participants, categorized into those with SCD (N = 42) and those without SCD (N = 51). Logistic and multivariable linear regression models were built. The results showed that depressive symptoms and concerns about executive ability significantly increased the risk of SCD in the logistic model. The linear model indicated that lower levels of community participation and education were associated with greater concerns about executive ability among those with SCD. Conclusion: Addressing depressive symptoms and executive ability in SCD is crucial; occupational therapy should facilitate community participation to support those with SCD.

Plain Language Summary

Associations of Subjective Cognition with Community participation, Health Conditions, and Demographic Factors in Middle-Aged and Older Adults

It is important to understand the factors influencing self-perceived cognitive abilities in middle-aged and older adults to prevent further cognitive deterioration. This study investigated whether community participation, health conditions, and demographics increased the risk of having self-perceived cognitive decline in adults aged 45 and older and how these factors were associated with self-perceived executive ability in those with subjective cognitive decline (SCD). We examined 93 community-dwelling individuals, categorizing them into those with self-perceived cognitive decline (42 people) and those without self-perceived cognitive decline (51 people). The results indicated that the presence of depressive symptoms and concerns about executive ability significantly increased the risk of self-perceived cognitive decline. In addition, lower levels of community participation and education were associated with greater concerns about executive ability among those with self-perceived cognitive decline. Addressing depressive symptoms and concerns about executive ability is essential for individuals experiencing self-perceived cognitive decline. Moreover, occupational therapy practitioners need to devise effective intervention strategies that address challenges in participating in community life, thereby alleviating concerns about executive abilities for individuals with self-perceived cognitive decline.