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Updated: May 25, 2026
10:13
Assessment of Age-related Changes in Cognitive Functions Using EmoCogMeter, a Novel Tablet-computer Based Approach
Published on: February 14, 2014
The relationship between cognitive function and non-prescribed therapy use in older adults
Ha T Nguyen1, Joseph G Grzywacz, Sara A Quandt
1Department of Family and Community Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Medical Center Blvd., Winston-Salem, NC, USA. hnguyen@wakehealth.edu
Aging & Mental Health
|February 7, 2012
Summary
Cognitive function impacts how older adults manage symptoms. Poorer cognitive function is linked to increased use of prayer, ignoring symptoms, and home remedies for acute and chronic conditions.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Cognitive Science
- Public Health
Background:
- Non-prescribed therapies are commonly used by older adults for symptom management.
- Understanding factors influencing therapy choice is crucial for geriatric care.
- Cognitive function is a key aspect of aging that may influence health behaviors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between cognitive function and the use of non-prescribed therapies in older adults.
- To determine if cognitive function influences changes in non-prescribed therapy use over time.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 200 community-dwelling adults aged 65+ participated.
- Cognitive function was assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination.
- Daily symptom management and non-prescribed therapy use (prayer, ignoring symptoms, OTC remedies, home remedies, supplements) were recorded over six months.
Main Results:
- Poorer cognitive function correlated with increased use of prayer and ignoring symptoms during acute symptom episodes.
- Lower cognitive function was associated with greater use of home remedies for chronic condition symptom management.
Conclusions:
- Cognitive function appears to influence the selection of non-prescribed therapies by older adults.
- These findings suggest cognitive status is a relevant factor in understanding self-management strategies in aging populations.
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