Cognitive impairment in patients with Parkinson's disease: A 30-month follow-up study

A longitudinal (30-month) study of the cognitive changes in Parkinson's disease patients and analysis of influencing factors.

The cognitive function and related symptoms of 102 patients with idiopathic Parkinson's disease were assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), and relevant scales, at baseline and 30-month follow-up. The t-test, nonparametric tests, and regression analyses were used to evaluate cognitive decline and investigate risk factors for cognitive impairment.

From baseline to follow-up, the MMSE and MoCA scores significantly decreased, respectively, from 28.16±2.29 to 26.18±3.64, and from 24.60±4.23 to 21.94±5.47 (both P<0.001). Impairment was observed in multiple cognitive areas, significantly in naming, delayed recall, and orientation (P<0.01). Patients at baseline with postural instability and gait disturbance (PIGD), lower MoCA scores, or depression had a higher risk of cognitive impairment at follow-up (P<0.01).

Cognitive impairment is highly prevalent in Parkinson's disease patients, especially for those with lower MoCA scores, PIGD, and depression.