Quality of life in cognitively impaired older adults

Quality of life (QOL) in older adults can be affected by many factors, such as dementia, sarcopenia and frailty. This study sought to identify factors that can lead to global deterioration in QOL among older outpatients, including factors stated in caregiver reports. This study also evaluated the discrepancy between QOL ratings reported by the patients and those by their family or professional caregivers.

The sample comprised 141 patients with a Mini-Mental State Examination score ≥20 and a Clinical Dementia Rating of 0.5-1, indicating mild cognitive impairment to mild dementia. QOL was assessed using both components of the EQ-5D scale, namely, the index score and visual analog scale. In addition, cognitive, neuropsychological, nutritional and physical function tests were carried out, and body measurements were taken.

Patients' self-reported QOL was significantly associated with basic activities of daily living, Mini Nutritional Assessment score and Geriatric Depression Scale-15. QOL rated by caregivers was significantly associated with basic activities of daily living. EQ-5D index scores reported by caregivers were lower than those reported by patients. Furthermore, patients achieved a better score for self-care, usual activities, pain/discomfort and anxiety/depression than those assigned by caregivers.

As far as the patient's ratings are concerned, the presence of depressive symptoms and a worse nutritional status were indicative of lower QOL, whereas a better functional status was associated with a higher QOL. For caregivers, however, the most relevant factor negatively affecting QOL was basic activities of daily living. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; 19: 999-1005.