Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors and Cognition in the Elderly

Although it is relatively widely known that cardiovascular disease (CVD) can result in cognitive decline, it is becoming increasingly clearer that actual risk factors for CVD, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity, are also associated with alterations to brain structure and cognition. The prevalence of CVD risk factors increases exponentially with age and these risk factors are often overlooked as a source of cognitive changes that are otherwise thought to be part of the “normal” aging process. Associated cognitive changes are observed even at levels of risk that would be considered subclinical by current diagnostic convention, and they are often significant enough to interfere with daily functional abilities. More importantly, if not controlled, CVD risk can lead to further decline, including cerebrovascular disease and dementia. Thus, it is critically important to consider these factors in the elderly, and we recommend more routine cognitive screenings, particularly when CVD risk factors are involved.