Risk for disorientation: Longitudinal evidence from three old age cohorts in Germany (AgeDifferent.de platform)

Einleitung Only little evidence is available on disorientation, one of the most challenging symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD). Aim of this study was to investigate the occurrence of disorientation in association with the level of cognitive functioning, personal characteristics, and specific life events.

Methoden Three population-based longitudinal cohort studies on cognitive health of elderly adults in Germany were harmonized (LEILA 75+, AgeCoDe/ AgeQualiDe, AgeMooDe). Data were collected in standardized interviews and questionnaires with the participant, a proxy informant, and the participant’s general practitioner. Participants who completed the cognitive assessments at follow-up and who did not have stroke, Parkinson’s, atherosclerosis, kidney infection/disease, and/or alcoholism were included in the analysis (n = 2135).

Ergebnisse Older age, a lower MMSE score (without the disorientation items), impairments in walking and being divorced or widowed came with a greater likelihood of having disorientation. Of the life events that we investigated, only the event ‘moving’ was significantly associated with a greater likelihood of incident disorientation.

Fazit Clinicians and health care workers should be aware that elderly people with decreased cognitive functioning who have difficulties walking, disrupted family relationships, and are in the process of moving to a new home are more likely to experience disorientation.

Publication History

Article published online:
02 September 2021