Memory self-assessment and performance in aged diabetics and non-diabetics

Non-insulin dependent diabetes in older adults is associated with elevated depression and a greater decline in certain aspects of cognitive functioning than is found with normal aging. This study sought to determine whether diabetics report more memory complaints in carrying out their daily activities, and if memory self-assessments are reflective of performance on laboratory tasks. Middle-aged (55-64 years) and old (65-74 years) diabetics and non-diabetic control subjects were studied. Results showed that both diabetes and increased age were associated with poorer performance on some cognitive tests as well as with more self-reported memory problems. When depression levels were statistically controlled, the diabetes variable was no longer a significant predictor of memory complaints. The usefulness of self-assessments as an adjunct to more objective cognitive test measures was discussed.