Clinical Report: Examination of Factors Linked to Cognitive Dysfunction in Older Adults Admitted for Chronic Heart Failure

Overview

This study investigates the prevalence of cognitive impairment (CI) among older inpatients with chronic heart failure (CHF) and identifies associated risk factors. The findings indicate a high prevalence of CI at 55.9%, with significant predictors including advanced age, sleep disturbance, diabetes, and elevated NT-proBNP levels.

Background

Cognitive impairment is a significant concern in older adults with chronic heart failure, impacting their quality of life and increasing healthcare burdens. Understanding the prevalence and associated factors of CI in this population can inform early screening and targeted interventions. The study addresses a gap in data specific to the Chinese population regarding CI in CHF patients.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• The prevalence of cognitive impairment among older CHF inpatients is 55.9%.
• Age ≥ 80 years is a significant risk factor for cognitive impairment (OR = 6.122).
• Sleep disturbance and diabetes are also identified as independent risk factors for cognitive impairment.
• Higher education levels and better left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) are protective factors against cognitive impairment.
• Random forest analysis confirmed LVEF as the most influential variable affecting cognitive function.

Clinical Implications

Clinicians should be aware of the high prevalence of cognitive impairment in older adults with chronic heart failure and consider screening for cognitive function as part of routine care. Identifying risk factors such as advanced age and comorbid conditions may help in tailoring interventions to improve patient outcomes.

Conclusion

The study highlights the significant prevalence of cognitive impairment in older CHF patients and identifies key risk factors, emphasizing the need for clinical awareness and targeted screening in this population.

Related Resources & Content

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3. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 2026 -- Identification of the Central Symptoms of Neuropsychiatric Symptoms among Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment: A network analysis
4. European Journal of Preventive Cardiology -- Impact of Pre-Hospital Exercise Patterns on Post-Discharge Outcomes in Elderly Heart Failure Patients
5. Cognitive Impairment in Heart Failure: A Heart Failure Society of America Scientific Statement - ScienceDirect
6. Cognitive Impairment Amongst Older Adults With Heart Failure: A Global Pooled Meta-Analysis - ScienceDirect
7. Effects of SGLT2 inhibitors on cognitive impairment in elderly inpatients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: a prospective cohort study | BMC Cardiovascular Disorders | Springer Nature Link
8. Cognitive Impairment in Heart Failure: A Heart Failure Society of America Scientific Statement
9. Cognitive Impairment Amongst Older Adults With Heart Failure: A Global Pooled Meta-Analysis
10. Effects of SGLT2 inhibitors on cognitive impairment in elderly inpatients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: a prospective cohort study | BMC Cardiovascular Disorders | Springer Nature Link