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Cognitive Function Is Associated With Mobility in Community Dwelling Older Adults With a History of Cardiovascular Disease.

Authors :
Blackwood, Jennifer
Source :
Cardiopulmonary Physical Therapy Journal (Lippincott Williams & Wilkins); Apr2019, Vol. 30 Issue 2, p86-93, 8p
Publication Year :
2019

Abstract

Purpose: Impaired cognitive function has been associated with changes in gait and balance deficits in older adults, thus contributing to an increased falls risk. However, associations between physical mobility and cognitive function have not been reported in older adults with cardiovascular disease (CVD). This study examined relationships between cognitive performance (executive function, visual spatial ability) and physical mobility (Timed Up and Go [TUG], gait speed, timed chair rise) in community-dwelling older adults with and without CVD. Methods: Forty-six participants met inclusion/exclusion criteria. Group assignment was completed based on CVD history (CVD group: n 5 27; non-CVD group: n 5 19). Groupwise comparisons between demographic, cognitive, and mobility variables were performed. Associations between cognitive function and physical mobility were examined within each group. Results: Groups did not differ in performance on mobility or cognitive measures; however, in older adults with CVD, executive function (Trail Making Test Part B) was independently associated with gait speed (rs520.469; P 5 .01) and TUG (rs 5 0.430; P 5 .02). Other cognitive measures were not associated with physical mobility in those without CVD. Conclusions: Due to associations found between executive processes and mobility, clinicians should consider screening executive function in older adults with CVD because it may influence physical mobility and falls risk; however, due to the small sample size, further study is indicated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
15417891
Volume :
30
Issue :
2
Database :
Complementary Index
Journal :
Cardiopulmonary Physical Therapy Journal (Lippincott Williams & Wilkins)
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
144274941
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1097/CPT.0000000000000095