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Updated: May 13, 2026
10:13
Assessment of Age-related Changes in Cognitive Functions Using EmoCogMeter, a Novel Tablet-computer Based Approach
Published on: February 14, 2014
Depression and cognition: how do they interrelate in old age?
Tessa N van den Kommer1, Hannie C Comijs, Marja J Aartsen
1Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Summary
Depression in older adults predicts cognitive decline, while slower information processing speed increases depression risk. These findings highlight the bidirectional relationship between mood and cognition over time.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
Background:
- The relationship between depressive symptoms and cognitive functioning in older adults is complex and bidirectional.
- Longitudinal studies are crucial for understanding the temporal dynamics of these conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the reciprocal effects between depressive symptoms and cognitive functioning over a 13-year period.
- To examine the association between changes in their trajectories.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from five waves of the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam (N=2,299).
- Assessed depressive symptoms using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale.
- Measured cognitive functioning via the Mini-Mental State Examination and a timed coding task.
Main Results:
- Depression at baseline predicted decline in general cognitive functioning and information processing speed.
- Information processing speed at baseline predicted increases in depressive symptoms, but not vice versa.
- The course of cognitive functioning was not significantly associated with the course of depressive symptoms.
Conclusions:
- Depressive symptoms in older adults are a significant predictor of cognitive decline.
- Limitations in information processing speed may increase vulnerability to depression.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms, including potential causal effects.
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