Physical function, functional capacity, cognition, and brain structure and function in older adults with chronic...

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Nephrology
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is prevalent in older adults and often co-occurs with cognitive complaints.
• Cognitive impairment and reduced physical function are common in aging populations, particularly those with CKD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between brain structure and function with physical function and functional capacity.
• To explore these associations in older adults diagnosed with CKD and experiencing cognitive complaints.

Main Methods:

• The study included older adults (60-80 years) with CKD and cognitive complaints (n=39).
• Associations were evaluated between neuroimaging data, cognitive function, functional capacity (6-minute walk test - 6MWT), and physical function (Short Physical Performance Battery - SPPB).

Main Results:

• Increased 6-minute walk test distance was associated with better attention and information processing (Trails Making Test-A, Digit Symbol Test).
• Higher scores on the Short Physical Performance Battery were also linked to better attention and information processing.
• Both 6MWT distance and SPPB showed associations with indicators of brain structure and diffusivity.

Conclusions:

• In older adults with CKD and cognitive complaints, functional capacity and physical function are potentially linked to cognitive performance.
• These findings suggest a relationship between physical health, cognitive function, and brain structure/function in this specific demographic.