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Published on: February 7, 2014
Blood pressure and late-life cognitive function change: a biracial longitudinal population study
L E Hebert1, P A Scherr, D A Bennett
1Rush Institute on Healthy Aging, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
Neurology
|June 9, 2004
Summary
High blood pressure (BP) did not significantly impact cognitive decline in older adults over six years. Widespread BP treatment in the community may have influenced these findings, showing no clear link between BP levels and cognitive function changes.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Neurology
- Cardiovascular Health
Background:
- Cognitive decline is a significant concern in aging populations.
- The relationship between blood pressure (BP) and cognitive function is complex and requires further investigation.
- Understanding factors influencing cognitive health in older adults is crucial for public health initiatives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between blood pressure (BP) and the subsequent decline in cognitive function.
- To analyze this relationship in individuals aged 65 years and older.
- To determine if BP levels at baseline predict cognitive changes over a six-year period.
Main Methods:
- A longitudinal study involving 4,284 participants aged 65 and over.
- Baseline BP measurements and cognitive function tests were administered.
- Cognitive function was reassessed at 3 and 6-year follow-ups, using a global measure derived from z scores.
Main Results:
- No significant linear association was found between systolic or diastolic BP and 6-year cognitive decline, after controlling for covariates.
- No significant curvilinear association was observed for systolic BP.
- A potential curvilinear association for diastolic BP suggested increased decline at very low or high levels (p=0.03).
Conclusions:
- In a community with common BP treatment, baseline BP was not associated with 6-year cognitive decline.
- These findings suggest that effective management of blood pressure may mitigate its potential negative effects on cognitive function in older adults.
- Further research is needed to explore the nuanced relationship between BP, its treatment, and cognitive trajectories.
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