engleski

The state of mind and the state of mood: Cognitive function and depression in old institutionalized people

Background: Epidemiological studies found that depression was associated with subsequent risk of cognitive decline (Sephton et al., 2003 ; Andel, Hughes & Crowe, 2005). The nature of this association remains unclear, as incipient AD may be a risk factor for depression. The aim of this study was to determine the possible association between depression and cognitive impairment in old institutionalized people of both sexes and different ages. Methods: Subjects were 300 older people, residents of 11 older people’ s homes in Zagreb, of both sexes, aged 65-90 years, grouped in four 5-year range age groups. Beck’ s Depression Scale and Cognitive Function Scale – CAPE were administered. Subjects’ objective health status, self-perceived health and functional ability were controlled for. Findings: Results showed different correlations between depression and cognitive impairment in different age groups. Discussion: The implications of these findings are interesting in terms of intervention and better identification of groups particularly susceptible to cognitive decline.

Ageing; cognitive function; depression

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