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Assessment of Age-related Changes in Cognitive Functions Using EmoCogMeter, a Novel Tablet-computer Based Approach
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Blood Pressure Profiles and Cognitive Function from Adulthood to Old Age: Chasing a Golden Middle Way?

Rita Del Pinto1, Davide Grassi1, Raffaella Bocale2

  • 1Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy.

Journal of Clinical Medicine
|August 7, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Understanding the link between blood pressure (BP) and dementia is crucial for aging populations. While BP control may prevent cognitive decline, low blood pressure might accelerate it, highlighting the need for further research.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Gerontology
  • Cardiovascular Medicine

Background:

  • Aging populations face increasing rates of cognitive impairment and dementia.
  • Hypertension is a known risk factor for vascular and Alzheimer's-type dementia.
  • Mechanisms may involve vascular damage, neuroinflammation, and neuronal cell death.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To address the knowledge gap in managing early pathogenic events related to blood pressure and dementia.
  • To investigate the complex relationship between blood pressure and cognitive decline in the elderly.
  • To inform tailored preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic strategies for age-related cognitive conditions.

Main Methods:

  • Review of clinical trial data on blood pressure control and cognitive impairment.
  • Epidemiological analysis of the association between hypertension and dementia.
  • Exploration of potential pathophysiological mechanisms linking blood pressure dysregulation to neurodegeneration.

Main Results:

  • Clinical trials suggest active blood pressure control with antihypertensive medications may reduce the risk of future cognitive impairment.
  • Hypotension is associated with accelerated cognitive decline in both healthy and frail elderly individuals.
  • The precise relationship and optimal blood pressure targets for cognitive health remain unclear.

Conclusions:

  • Further technologically advanced studies are needed to elucidate the pathophysiological mechanisms.
  • Clarifying the role of blood pressure in dementia is essential for developing effective interventions.
  • Targeted approaches for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of blood pressure-related cognitive decline are required.

Keywords:
antihypertensive medicationscognitive impairmentdementiahypertensionhypotension

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