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Brief Reports
Prevalence of Cognitive Impairment in Older Adults with Heart Failure
Article first published online: 6 AUG 2012
DOI: 10.1111/j.1532-5415.2012.04097.x
© 2012, Copyright the Authors Journal compilation © 2012, The American Geriatrics Society
Additional Information
How to Cite
J Am Geriatr Soc 60:1724–1729, 2012.
Publication History
- Issue published online: 17 SEP 2012
- Article first published online: 6 AUG 2012
Funded by
- National Institute on Aging (NIA). Grant Numbers: U01 AG09740, NIA, R01 AG030155, R01 AG030155
- National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. Grant Number: K23 HL109176
- NIA. Grant Numbers: NIA, R01 AG030155, R01 AG030155, K23 HL109176
- NIA. Grant Numbers: R01 AG030155, R01 AG030155, K23 HL109176, R01 AG027010–02S1
- National Center for Research Resources. Grant Number: UL1 RR024986
- Abstract
- Article
- References
- Cited By
Keywords:
- heart failure;
- aged;
- cognitive impairment;
- Medicare claims data
Objectives
To determine the prevalence of cognitive impairment in older adults with heart failure (HF).
Design
Cross-sectional analysis of the 2004 wave of the nationally representative Health and Retirement Study linked to 2002 to 2004 Medicare administrative claims.
Setting
United States, community.
Participants
Six thousand one hundred eighty-nine individuals aged 67 and older.
Measurements
An algorithm was developed using a combination of self- and proxy report of a heart problem and the presence of one or more Medicare claims in administrative files using standard HF diagnostic codes. On the basis of the algorithm, three categories were created to characterize the likelihood of a HF diagnosis: high or moderate probability of HF, low probability of HF, and no HF. Cognitive function was assessed using a screening measure of cognitive function or according to proxy rating. Age-adjusted prevalence estimates of cognitive impairment were calculated for the three groups.
Results
The prevalence of cognitive impairment consistent with dementia in older adults with HF was 15%, and the prevalence of mild cognitive impairment was 24%. The odds of dementia in those with HF were significantly higher, even after adjustment for age, education level, net worth, and prior stroke (odds ratio = 1.52, 95% confidence interval = 1.14–2.02).
Conclusion
Cognitive impairment is common in older adults with HF and is independently associated with risk of dementia. A cognitive assessment should be routinely incorporated into HF-focused models of care.