J Korean Acad Community Health Nurs.  2017 Jun;28(2):107-117. 10.12799/jkachn.2017.28.2.107.

Analyzing Factors Affecting Cognitive Function in the Elderly using Computerized Neurocognitive Tests

• Shim J
• Kang S

• KMID: 2392852
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.12799/jkachn.2017.28.2.107

Abstract

PURPOSE
The purpose of this study is to examine the cognitive function in the elderly and to identify the influencing factors.
METHODS
The design of this study was descriptive research design. A total of 139 elderly people (aged 65 years and over) visiting the electroencephalogram (EEG) center in Seoul, Korea were evaluated. Data were assessed by self-administered questionnaires and CNS Vital Signs (CNSVS). Data were analyzed using SPSS Statistics 23.0 for Windows.
RESULTS
There were significant differences in the Korean Mini-Mental State Examination (K-MMSE), executive functions and reasoning according to education level. K-MMSE, visual memory and executive functions were different depending on the jobs. Age was highly correlated with cognitive function. In addition, stepwise multiple regression analyses showed that the factor significantly associated with reaction time and visual memory was depression. Depression and Trait-Anxiety had significant impacts on executive functions and K-MMSE.
CONCLUSION
CNSVS enabled the accurate and objective measurement of cognitive function. Therefore, this study provides useful data to improve cognitive function of the community-dwelling elderly. The results suggested that there is need for comprehensive interventional programs that manage cognitive impairment.

Keyword

Aged; Cognition; Depression; Anxiety

MeSH Terms

Aged*
Anxiety
Cognition Disorders
Cognition*
Depression
Education
Electroencephalography
Executive Function
Humans
Korea
Memory
Reaction Time
Research Design
Seoul
Vital Signs

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