Probable relationship between cognitive impairment and depression in older people

Abstract

Introduction: The increase of the life expectan­cy in the elderly is a growing phenomenon, in this stage of life the physical, psychological and social functions diminish, favoring the presence of disea­ses such as cognitive impairment and depression. Some studies report that these conditions are risk factors for dementia. However, if these conditions are detected early, preventive measures can be taken to slow the damage.

Objective: To identify and correlate cognitive im­pairment and depression in adults over 60 years of age.

Methodology: descriptive, transversal, study with a sample of 399 adults over 60 years of age who attended day care centers, nursing homes, and hospitals, who underwent geriatric nursing assess­ment to identify probable cognitive impairment and depression, through the application of Folstein Mini Mental tests and Yesavage GDS short version.

Results: 73.7% were female, 46% are between 60 and 70 years of age, 23.63% have probable mild depression and 24.54% is probable mild to mode­rate cognitive impairment, it is noteworthy that the older are observed probable cases of depression and severe cognitive impairment.

Conclusions: There is consistency between the probable cognitive impairment and depression in normal and light levels in a fifth of the population studied retaining a similarity with other studies why geriatric nursing assessment in early detection is critical to limit damage.