Assessment of Factors Influencing Cognitive Status in the Oldest-Old: Evidence From a Community-Based Integrated Healthy Aging Program (YASAM) in Türkiye

Abstract

Background

Cognitive impairment is a major concern in adults aged ≥80, yet evidence on combined social, clinical, nutritional, and psychological influences remains limited in low- and middle-income settings.

Objective

To identify factors associated with cognitive status in community-dwelling oldest-old adults in Türkiye.

Methods

This retrospective cross-sectional study included 295 adults aged ≥80 participating in the YASAM program. Cognitive status, frailty, depression, nutrition, functional ability, and laboratory parameters were assessed using validated tools. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify factors independently associated with cognitive impairment.

Results

Cognitive impairment was present in 34.2% of participants (mean age 84.5 years; 62.7% female). Older age, female sex, lower education, and being unmarried were associated with impairment. Diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and cerebrovascular disease were more common. Higher frailty and depressive symptoms were associated with cognitive impairment, whereas educational attainment, being married, higher nutritional scores, and hemoglobin levels were associated with better cognitive status.

Keywords

cognitive impairment oldest-old frailty depression anemia malnutrition

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