Age and gender disparities in depression and subjective cognitive decline-related outcomes

Abstract

Objectives

Determine the association between depression and SCD-related outcomes by age and gender.

Methods

Using 2018 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System survey data, crude and multivariable logistic regression models were used to determine the associations between depression and SCD-related outcomes by age and gender.

Results

Among respondents 45 to 69, depression was associated with SCD [adjusted OR (aOR): 4.36; 95% CI: 3.24–5.86]; needing assistance with activities due to confusion/memory loss (aOR: 2.38; 95% CI: 1.26 − 4.51); needing help with activities and the help is not available (aOR: 4.46; 95% CI: 1.31 − 15.2); and having discussed confusion/memory loss with a health care professional (aOR: 1.87; 95% CI: 1.09 − 3.23). However, among respondents 70 and older, depression was associated with SCD (aOR): 3.52; 95% CI: 2.06–6.02); needing help with activities and the help is not available (aOR: 0.09; 95% CI: 0.01–0.56); confusion/memory loss interfering with work/social activities (aOR: 2.44; 95% CI: 1.03–5.79); and having discussed confusion/memory loss with a health care professional (aOR): 2.99; 95% CI: 1.20–7.40). Depression was positively associated with SCD among men (aOR): 3.68; 95% CI: 2.52–5.38) and women (aOR): 4.76; 95% CI: 3.29–6.87; and was positively associated with all SCD-related outcomes among men except for confusion/memory loss interfering with work/social activities and given up chores. Depression was positively associated with the latter among women (aOR): 2.10; 95% CI: 1.09–4.06).

Discussion

SCD interventions should include assessment of and intervention for depression, and consider age and gender differences.

KEYWORDS:

• Cognitive function
• cognitive status
• depression
• mental health
• disparities

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

This work was partially funded by the National Institute of Mental Health K01MH115794. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health.