Prevalence of subjective cognitive decline and its association with physical health problems among urban community dwelling elderly population in South India.

INTRODUCTION

No studies in India have explored subjective cognitive decline (SCD), a hallmark of stage II of preclinical Alzheimer's disease. This study aims to assess the prevalence and correlates of SCD in a South Indian, urban, elderly population.

METHODS

We screened 403 individuals 60 years of age and older using the Subjective Memory Complaints Questionnaire (SMCQ) and measured objective cognition with the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Physical health parameters were evaluated for all participants.

RESULTS

Among the participants, 377 (93.5%) reported subjective memory complaints. Of the 26 individuals without SCD, 15(57.7%) had objective cognitive impairment (MoCA <25). A total of 182 participants (45.2%) were identified with SCD. Higher educational attainment was significantly associated with fewer SCD reports and better cognitive performance (p < 0.001).

DISCUSSION

Subjective cognitive decline (SCD) is highly prevalent among older adults. Screening for SCD can help identify individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease. SCD assessement combined with cost-effective biomarkers that confirms AD will help individuals to be identified for disease-modifying therapies.

HIGHLIGHTS

Nearly half of older adults population screened has reported subjective cognitive decline (SCD), highlighting the widespread occurrence of SCD in urban South India. Participants with higher educational attainment had significantly fewer memory complaints and performed better on cognitive assessments. SCD was prevalent even among individuals without major comorbid conditions such as diabetes and hypertension and those who were on regular treatment for metabolic and cardiovascular disorders. Identifying subjective cognitive decline (SCD) can facilitate early and accurate diagnosis of cognitive disorders and help delay progression to dementia. This highlights the importance of developing and implementing improved public health strategies to address these challenges. Further longitudinal studies are necessary to explore the progression of SCD to dementia, focusing on the interplay between cognitive health, biomarkers, and educational factors in the Indian population.