Cognitive assessment of the non-demented elderly community dwellers in Spain

The prevalence of cognitive impairment and population normative values for cognitive function were assessed, for the first time, in 2,630 subjects representative of the non-demented community dweller population > or =65 years in Spain, a southern European country with a sizable proportion of illiterate senior citizens.

Data were collected cross-sectionally by interview, using a structured questionnaire. Cognitive function was assessed using the Mini-Examen Cognoscitivo (MEC; Spanish-validated version of the Mini-Mental State Examination).

A total of 22.4% of the subjects presented with cognitive impairment (MEC < or =22). The proportion of subjects with cognitive impairment was double in women versus men, rose to 46.2% in subjects aged > or =85 years and to 34.8% in subjects with no formal education, and was higher among those who had limitations in instrumental activities of daily living (p < 0.001). In subjects with no formal education, 25% registered mean MEC scores compatible with probable cognitive impairment.

One of every 5 Spanish senior citizens presents with cognitive impairment, a proportion that increased among women, subjects with no formal education and with higher age.