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Thyroid function, depressed mood, and cognitive performance in older individuals: the Maastricht Aging Study
M P J van Boxtel1, P P C A Menheere, O Bekers
1European Graduate School of Neuroscience (EURON), Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands. martin.vanboxtel@np.unimaas.nl
Psychoneuroendocrinology
|June 5, 2004
Summary
Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels show a small association with memory performance in healthy aging adults. This link is influenced by mood and potential thyroid issues, not age itself.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Endocrinology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Thyroid function is crucial for overall health.
- Age-related cognitive decline is a growing concern.
- The relationship between thyroid hormones and cognition in healthy aging is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels and cognitive performance in a healthy aging population.
- To examine if mood state influences the TSH-cognition relationship.
- To determine if age modifies the association between TSH and cognitive function.
Main Methods:
- A random sample of 120 participants (aged 49-71) from the Maastricht Aging Study (MAAS) was analyzed.
- Serum TSH levels, mood (depression subscale), and cognitive functions (verbal memory, sensorimotor speed, complex flexibility) were assessed.
- Statistical analyses controlled for age, sex, educational level, and mood status.
Main Results:
- A negative association was observed between higher TSH levels and lower memory performance after controlling for demographic factors.
- This association was attenuated when individuals with suspected thyroid disorders or on thyroid replacement were excluded.
- Controlling for mood status further reduced the association below statistical significance.
- No interaction was found between age and TSH on cognitive performance.
Conclusions:
- The association between TSH levels and memory performance in this healthy aging sample is small and dependent on mood and the presence of potential thyroid dysfunction.
- Thyroid function's role in age-related cognitive decline requires further investigation through prospective studies.