Risk Factors for Cognitive Decline in Elderly People: Findings from the Two-year Follow-Up Study in Shanghai Urban Community

Abstract

Background:

The prevalence of cognitive impairment (CI) and its associated risk factors among elderly peoples in China has been investigated. However, dynamic studies revealing the risk factors associated with cognitive decline from follow-up observations in China are rarely performed.

Objective:

The present study aimed to identify factors predicting late-life cognitive decline in China.

Methods:

Participants were 223 community-dwelling residents (⩾65 years old) from the urban community of Shanghai with no CI upon comprehensive assessments at baseline. Cognitive decline at 2-year follow-up was defined as a drop of two or more points from baseline score in the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Associations with baseline demographic, lifestyle, health, and medical factors were then determined within the population.

Results:

After 2 years, cognitive decline and incident CI developed in 75 (33.6%) and 25 (11.2%) participants, respectively. Across all participants, risk factors for cognitive decline included low education, high body mass index, and diabetes mellitus. Among participants with cognitive decline, points were predominantly lost in items relating to time orientation and complex commands in the MMSE.

Conclusion:

This study confirms the differences in risk factors between cross-sectional and longitudinal studies for cognitive decline among the elderly population in urban Shanghai. Interventions tailored to potential risk factors associated with cognitive decline may offer further benefits.