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This study aims to assess the effects of various health risk factors on cognitive function in the elderly population.

June 17, 2026Open Access

A study to assess cognitive function and its correlation to risk factors in elderly population attending outpatient department of a peripheral medical college in Eastern India

Key Points

This study aims to assess the effects of various health risk factors on cognitive function in the elderly population.
Evaluated 130 elderly participants (≥70 years) attending an outpatient department.
Collected data on BMI, WHR, pulse, BP, lipid profile, cortisol levels, and perceived stress.
Utilized MMSE and PSS questionnaires for cognitive assessment and performed statistical analyses.
106 participants showed no cognitive impairment (MMSE ≥24), while 18 had mild (18-23) and 6 severe impairment (≤17).
Negative correlation found between WHR and HDL in the no cognitive impairment group.
Positive correlation seen between LDL, VLDL, and perceived stress with severe cognitive impairment.

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background: Dementia is an abnormal and irreversible form of neurodegeneration that leads to loss of cognition. Extensive research into epidemiological factors and correlations is needed to identify the predisposed and administered protocols that delay or arrest the pathology at onset. Major risk factors include aging, dyslipidemia, poor cardiovascular health, diabetes, obesity, addictions, sedentary lifestyle, and social isolation. Aim: The aim of this study is to determine the effect of body mass index (BMI), waist-hip ratio (WHR), pulse and blood pressure (BP), lipid profile, serum cortisol, and perceived stress on cognitive functions among the elderly (with age ≥ 70) population attending outpatient department of a peripheral medical college in Eastern India. Materials and Methods: One hundred and thirty elderly (≥70 years of age) voluntary participants, without any speech difficulty, cerebrovascular accident, or difficulty understanding or answering the questionnaire were selected. Data regarding BMI, WHR, pulse, BP, and lipid profile were collected, Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and perceived stress scale (PSS) questionnaires were served and morning blood samples for serum cortisol were collected. Data were tabulated and analyzed using the analysis of variance and P values and r-values were calculated. Results: Out of a total of 130 participants based on MMSE scores, 106 scored ≥24 out the of maximum possible score of 30 and hence grouped as no cognitive impairment, 18 scored between 18 and 23 and hence grouped as mild cognitive impairment group and only 06 scored ≤17, grouped as severe cognitive impairment group. WHR and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) showed a negative correlation in the no cognitive impairment group, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and very LDL (VLDL) from lipid profile and PSS scores show a positive correlation in severe cognitive impairment group. Conclusion: Elderly participants with higher HDL and lower serum cortisol levels are more likely to have normal cognitive functions while participants with raised LDL and VLDL levels, and higher perceived stress are more likely to be cognitively impaired. Obesity indexes in correlation with cognitive function need more evaluation.

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