Subjective memory complaints in the elderly may be related to factors other than cognitive deficit

Abstract

Prevalence of subjective memory complaints (SMC) in elderly community dwellers (ECD) ranges from 25 to 50%. Some controversy exists over the association between SMC and cognitive status.ObjectiveWe investigated whether a correlation in cognitive performance existed between two different groups according to SMC.MethodsThe Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Dementia Rating Scale-Mattis (DRS-Mattis) were applied to two groups: ECD (n=14) with SMC and residents (n=14) of a long-term care facility (LTCF) without SMC.ResultsThe median age in the ECD group was 81.0 years, and in the LTCF group was 75.0 years. There was a statistically significant difference (p=0.048) between these groups regarding age. Concerning schooling (1-8 or ≥9 years), there was no statistically significant difference between the groups (p=0.638). No statistically significant difference between the two groups was found for scores on the cognitive tests.ConclusionSMC might be related to extrinsic factors other than insipient cognitive decline.

Subjective cognitive decline: The first clinical manifestation of Alzheimer's disease?

“…Although an increasingly discussed topic in Cognitive Neurology, there are few studies involving the Brazilian population. 30 - 35 Moreover, to date, there are no published Brazilian studies involving AD biomarkers in patients with subjective cognitive decline.…”

“…On the other hand, some studies have shown no correlation between worse performance on cognitive tests and the presence of subjective decline. 35 , 36 In one investigation, two groups were compared: one formed by community elders with complaints and another consisting of institutionalized elderly without complaints. No differences were observed between the groups in performance on neuropsychological assessment.…”

Applicability of the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status (Modified) in a community sample with low education level: association with an extensive neuropsychological battery

“…In fact, the correlation between memory complaints and cognitive performance remains controversial. Studies have demonstrated that memory complaints cannot be taken as a definitive indicator for cognitive impairment since they can reflect depressive disorders and other psychological morbidity aspects (Aguiar et al , ). Interestingly, we found a negative association between the TICSM‐PT and the PRMQ.…”

Mild cognitive impairment and progression to dementia of Alzheimer's disease

“…34 Screening tests such as the mini-exam of the mental state, 35 clock-drawing test, verbal fluency and a questionnaire on instrumental and basic daily life activities, as well as the geriatric depression scale (GDS) questionnaire, must be applied. 36,37 neuropsychological testing…”