(bo_78_20_2020) Támogató: Bolyai János Kutatási Ösztöndíj
(Lendulet-2023_94)
(2019-2.1.7-ERA-NET-2020-00006) Támogató: NKFI
(Open access funding provided by Semmelweis University)
Subjective cognitive complaints (SCC) is a self-reported experience of persistently
impaired cognitive functions which could be the earliest red flag of neurocognitive
disorders. The COVID-19 pandemic and related restriction measures changed the lifestyle
and behaviour of older adults. The aim of this study was to assess the relation of
these changes and SCC status in Hungary. This cross-sectional study analysed the data
of 359 elderly Hungarians who filled out the WW-FINGERS-SARS-CoV2 survey. A quarter
of the respondents (n:88) reported SCC in connection with the pandemic. We compared
sociodemographic features, health status, lifestyle, and social life parameters between
subjects with reported SCC and without. To eliminate the potential interrelation across
group differences, stepwise logistic regression was applied. Participants with SCC
showed the following characteristics, compared to individuals without: (1) they were
older; (2) they were more likely to be women; (3) they had a higher number of chronic
disorders; (4) showed more prominent impairment in physical mobility; (5) had worse
sleep quality; (6) spent less time with family; and (7) used internet more frequently
during the pandemic (all p ’s < 0.001). Logistic regression highlighted that only
two parameters were related to SCC status independently, the physical mobility (ability
to walk 500 m without difficulties; OR = 1.186; p < 0.001; 95%CI = 1.101, 1.270)
and changes in time spent with grandchildren (OR = 1.04; p = 0.015; 95%CI = 1.008,
1.073). Our study draws attention to the importance of physical mobility and quality
time with family as key factors in the cognitive well-being of elderly people.
