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Association Between Olfactory and Gustatory Dysfunction and Cognition in Older Adults
Ian Churnin1, Jamiluddin Qazi2, Cyrelle R Fermin2
11 Department of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia.
American Journal of Rhinology & Allergy
|January 12, 2019
Summary
Olfactory dysfunction (OD) and severe gustatory dysfunction (GD) are linked to cognitive decline in older adults. These sensory impairments independently predict dementia, highlighting their importance in cognitive health assessments.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Gerontology
- Sensory Science
Background:
- Emerging evidence suggests a link between olfactory dysfunction (OD) and cognitive decline.
- However, the relationship between gustatory dysfunction (GD) and cognitive impairment is less established.
- This study investigates the independent associations of OD and GD with cognitive status.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if olfactory dysfunction (OD) and gustatory dysfunction (GD) are independent predictors of cognitive impairment.
- To assess the association between sensory impairments and cognitive decline in a large, representative sample of older adults.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from 1376 older adults (weighted sample of 50,816,529) from the 2013-2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.
- Assessed olfactory and gustatory status using objective measurements and cognition via CERAD, AFT, and DSST.
- Employed univariate and multivariate regression analyses to determine independent associations.
Main Results:
- Olfactory dysfunction (OD) was significantly associated with mild cognitive impairment and dementia.
- Gustatory dysfunction (GD) was associated with dementia.
- Both OD and GD were confirmed as independent predictors of dementia when analyzed together.
Conclusions:
- Olfactory dysfunction (OD) and severe gustatory dysfunction (GD) are independent predictors of cognitive impairment.
- These findings highlight the importance of assessing sensory function in the context of cognitive health in older adults.
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