Features of cognitive disorders in elderly and old patients with hypertension

Aim. To assess cognitive status of the elderly and old patients with arterial hypertension, in outpatient setting. Material and methods. Totally, 356 patients included, age 74,9 ± 6,1 y., 80,4% females. For cognition assessment before and after the treatment, neuropsychological test was done, with MMSE — short scale of psychic status assessment, drawing test; literal and categoric associations test.

Results. In the group <80 y. o. The prominence of MMSE disorders correlated with blood pressure values (BP): for systolic BP (r = –0,22, p = 0,0003), for diastolic BP (r = –0,13, p = 0,03), i.e. in higher BP patients there were lower points in cognition scale by Spearman correlation. In the group ≥80 y. both correlations were non-significant, for systolic BP (r = –0,05, p = 0,64), and for diastolic BP (r = –0,13, p = 0,25). Conclusion. In older age and senile patients with arterial hypertension there should be differential approach to BP management according to the age and cognition disorders, complex approach to treatment in these patients might prevent further worsening of cognitive decline.