Factors Associated with Cognitive Impairment Among Indonesian Older Adults

Background/Purpose: The rising number of older adults in Indonesia potentially caused a new challenge in the field of public health, including the prevalence of dementia, which mostly preceded by cognitive impairment. Given the irreversible nature of dementia and cognitive impairment, it is crucial to comprehend the associated factors, such as sociodemographic, lifestyle, psychosocial, and other health-related factors. By understanding these factors, proactive measures can be taken to prevent and address the future challenge in health and aging. Methods: Data from individuals aged 55 years or over who fully participated in the cognitive measurement session of the fifth wave of Indonesia Family Life Survey (IFLS5) were analyzed cross-sectionally. The associations of cognitive impairment with each factor were analyzed using multiple logistic regression model. Results: The final model indicated that cognitive impairment was more likely to occur in older adults with lower education level, less physical activity, less community participation, severe depressive symptoms, and lower body mass index as they are advancing in years. Conclusion: As most factors associated are modifiable, it is expected that the results indicated can be reflected in the current health program so that the number of people with cognitive impairment will not drastically rise as the population continue to age in the future.