Factors Associated with Mild Cognitive Impairment and Dementia Amongst the Oldest Old: Findings Based on the Nationally Representative

Abstract

Factors associated with mild cognitive impairment and dementia amongst the oldest old: findings based on the nationally representative �old age in Germany (D80+)� study," addresses a knowledge gap regarding factors associated with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia in the oldest old, using data from a large, nationally representative sample. The study utilized data from the "Old Age in Germany (D80+)" study, which included 2,555 community-dwelling and institutionalized individuals aged 80 to 100 years (mean age 85.5 years). Cognitive impairment was measured using the DemTect, classifying individuals into probable MCI and probable dementia.

The results showed that 57.8% of individuals had no cognitive impairment, 24.2% had MCI, and 18.0% had probable dementia. Regression analysis identified several associated factors: sociodemographic factors (advanced age, being male, lower education), lifestyle-related factors (lower cognitive activities), psychosocial factors (higher loneliness and absence of meaning in life), and health-related factors (functional impairment). Notably, loneliness was associated with these outcomes only among women. The study concludes that this knowledge, derived from large, nationally representative data, enhances the understanding of factors associated with MCI and dementia, which can help identify individuals at risk. Further longitudinal studies are recommended for deeper insights.