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Tuesday, 13 July 2010
Learning Objective 1: The learner will be able to describe the relationship between cognitive status and functional status in an ethnically diverse community older adult target population.
Learning Objective 2: The learner will be able to identify variables that modify the relationship between cognitive status and functional status in this same target population.
Purpose: One in seven persons over age 70 will develop dementia, severely limiting their cognitive abilities. Published research indicates that cognitive impairment limits older adult functional status, safety, and independence. However, community screening for cognitive impairment is rare, especially in ethnically diverse communities. Considering the Andreas Demetriou cognitive theory, that acknowledges individual differences can affect cognition, this study will determine the relationship between cognitive status and functional status as well as which select demographic variables moderate that relationship among ethnically diverse community dwelling older adults.
Methods: Using a cross sectional descriptive design, a convenience sample of 100 ethnically diverse (Caucasian, Hispanic, and Vietnamese) community dwelling older adults are being screened for cognitive and functional status using English, Spanish, and Vietnamese versions of the Folstein Mini Mental Status Exam, Clock Drawing Test, and Functional Activities Questionnaire. Hierarchical regression analysis will be used to determine what select demographic variables moderate the relationship between cognitive status and functional ability. Each model will be evaluated using an F statistic for R square change and if significant the associated residual plot will be examined.
Results: Current study is in data collection and will be complete by April 2010.
Conclusion: Early screening for cognitive impairment is important for community dwelling ethnically diverse older adults so that underlying cause(s) can be properly identified through timely community nurse referrals, environments can be adapted to promote safety, and families can prepare for the future.