Lifestyle influences on cognitive classification and global cognition

Abstract

Vascular dementia is diagnosed at a much higher rate in Singapore compared to Western and even other Asian countries. There is an urgent need to research into modifiable lifestyle factors that contribute to the development of this dementia. Such risk factors include engaging in physical activity, getting good sleep, and managing one’s vascular health. Managing these risk factors can decrease the risk of dementia if addressed early, during the stage of MCI. However, maintaining healthy lifestyle habits requires motivation. Therefore, this study aims to explore the associations between MCI, lifestyle factors, vascular risk factors, and the types of motivation. Methods: The current study was done in conjunction with the DRCS. Lifestyle questionnaires (IPAQ, PSQI & SIMS) and neuropsychological tests were conducted as part of data collection. Results: Age, diabetes, and cardiac disease, are significant predictors of developing MCI. Individuals with more self-determined motivation to engage in healthy lifestyle habits were found to be less likely to be classified as having MCI. Further analysis found that engaging in moderate-intensity physical activity might indirectly influence this risk. Discussion: Comparing with published BIOCIS results, vascular risk factors emerge as a consistently significant predictor of MCI. In the present study, sleep was not a significant predictor of MCI but research suggests sleep quality potentially acts as a mediator in the association between depressive symptoms and cognitive impairment.