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Handgrip Strength Predicts Longitudinal Changes in Clock Drawing Test Performance. An Observational Study in a Sample
G Viscogliosi1, M G Di Bernardo, E Ettorre
1Giovanni Viscogliosi; Viale del Policlinico 155, 00100, Rome, Italy. giovanni.viscogliosi@libero.it. +393398240918.
The Journal of Nutrition, Health & Aging
|April 28, 2017
Summary
Reduced handgrip strength in older adults is a significant predictor of cognitive decline over one year. This finding highlights physical performance as a potential early indicator for dementia risk.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Neurology
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Physical performance decline is associated with increased dementia risk in older adults.
- Handgrip strength is a readily measurable indicator of overall physical function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate handgrip strength as an independent predictor of cognitive decline in older adults.
- To assess the association between baseline handgrip strength and 1-year cognitive decline.
Main Methods:
- Prospective observational study with 104 dementia-free older adults.
- Cognitive function assessed using the Clock Drawing Test (CDT).
- Handgrip strength measured with a dynamometer; brain MRI used to assess white matter hyperintensities (WMHs).
Main Results:
- A significant association was found between lower baseline handgrip strength and accelerated 1-year decline in CDT performance.
- This association remained robust even after adjusting for white matter hyperintensities.
- Handgrip strength explained 58% of the variance in cognitive decline.
Conclusions:
- Handgrip strength is a valuable predictor of 1-year cognitive decline in older adults.
- Physical function limitations may be linked to dementia risk, warranting further investigation into causal mechanisms.
