Assessment of cognitive impairment in elderly with frailty syndrome

Abstract

Background. ‘Cognitive impairment’ and ‘frailty’ are the most prevalent geriatric syndromes that coexist in older adults imposing significant financial burdens on healthcare systems. Progressive age-related cumulative changes are reflected by increased dependency, vulnerability, disability, and mortality. Objective of the study. To evaluate cognitive impairment and research factors that can accelerate or delay aging related health and prognosis. Material and methods. The pathophysiology, association roles, and screening techniques were reviewed using selected 60 PUBMED database’s 2018–2023 papers. Results. Frailty and related cognitive impairment were shown to be significantly correlated. Numerous aggravating factors including physiological (lower hormone functions, senescence of all organ systems), genetic, environmental, physical (comorbidities, polypharmacy), and mental pathologies (psychosocial and emotional) were identified. Conclusions. Reliable early indicators and screening algorithms are crucial. A recent brief community screening approach combines self-administered tools like p-AD8 + IQCODE questionnaires for primary and DemTect + MoCA test for secondary evaluation. The implementation of simple preventive measures like including mobility, strength and resistance training, proper nutrition, adequate management of comorbidities, active participation in more social, and cognitive activities that can delay progression is critical. Avoiding polypharmacy and adequate treatment of comorbidities can improve cognitive status in elderly