Sex-Influenced Risk Factors for Cognitive Impairment Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults

J Gerontol Nurs. 2022 Jun;48(6):19-25. doi: 10.3928/00989134-20220505-02. Epub 2022 Jun 1.

Abstract

The current study aimed to explore sex-influenced risk factors for cognitive impairment among community-dwelling older adults in Taiwan. This cross-sectional study was a secondary analysis using a population-based design. We accessed and analyzed data from the Taiwan Longitudinal Study on Aging survey of 2011. Participants were older adults aged ≥55 years living in non-indigenous townships. A total of 3,392 community-dwelling older adults were included. Results showed that the prevalence of cognitive impairment in females and males was 15.3% and 5.7%, respectively. Having a low educational level and being single (i.e., single, widowed, or divorced) were risk factors for cognitive impairment in both sexes. Males who had more than two chronic diseases had a higher risk of cognitive impairment. Self-reported hearing loss and depression increased risk of cognitive impairment in older females. Older age, lower educational level, and single marital status were associated with cognitive impairment among community-dwelling older adults in Taiwan. The effects of self-reported hearing loss, depression, and chronic disease on cognitive impairment were influenced by sex. [Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 48(6), 19-25.].

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Cognitive Dysfunction* / epidemiology
  • Cognitive Dysfunction* / psychology
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Female
  • Hearing Loss* / epidemiology
  • Humans
  • Independent Living
  • Longitudinal Studies
  • Male
  • Risk Factors