An assessment of the cognitive functions of the senior citizens living in the community

Abstract

Abstract Aim. The study aimed to evaluate cognitive function status in community-dwelling seniors and to establish relationships between cognitive function and selected aspects. Material and methods. The research population consisted of 330 community-dwelling respondents over the age of 60. Cognitive function was assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Test (MoCA), anxiety symptoms – using the Geriatric Anxiety Inventory (GAI), and depression symptoms – using the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15). Quality of life was assessed using the Older People’s Quality of Life – Brief version (OPQOL-BRIEF). Results. The average total score in the MoCA test was 26.2 points (SD = 2.3; min. 19; max. 30), and 63.7% of respondents scored within the norm. A lower average MoCA score was recorded in those who were diagnosed with depression (p = 0.012). The same was true for those who were diagnosed with anxiety (p < 0.001). Signifi cantly worse MoCA scores were found in those who were no longer working (p = 0.027). Conclusions. Assessment of cognitive function in the elderly should not be underestimated in terms of the need for early detection of dementia. In addition to activities that may enhance cognitive function, there is a need to support activities in practice that focus on reducing the symptoms of anxiety and depression in the elderly.