Subjective memory complaints and cognitive impairment in older people
Dement Geriatr Cogn Disord. 2006;22(5-6):471-85.
doi: 10.1159/000096295.
Epub 2006 Oct 16.
Authors
Louise M Reid 1, Alasdair M J Maclullich
Affiliation
●1Geriatric Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
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PMID:
17047326
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DOI:
10.1159/000096295
Abstract
Subjective memory complaints (SMCs) are common in older people and are often thought to indicate cognitive impairment. We reviewed research on the relationship between SMCs and (a) current cognitive function, (b) risk of future cognitive decline, and (c) depression and personality. SMCs were found to be inconsistently related to current cognitive impairment but were more strongly related to risk of future cognitive decline. However, SMCs were consistently related to depression and some personality traits, e.g. neuroticism. In conclusion, the determinants of SMCs are complex. The utility of SMCs in the diagnosis of pre-dementia states (e.g. mild cognitive impairment) is uncertain and requires further evaluation.
Publication types
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Review
MeSH terms
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Aged
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Aging / psychology*
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Attitude to Health*
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Cognition Disorders / diagnosis
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Cognition Disorders / epidemiology*
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Depression / epidemiology
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Disease Progression
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Humans
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Memory Disorders / diagnosis
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Memory Disorders / epidemiology*
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Neuropsychological Tests
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Personality
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Risk Factors
Grants and funding
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G108/646/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom