Cognitive functioning of older women with diverse physical fitness and independence: limitations of dementia screening in primary healthcare

Introduction
Decreased cognitive functioning is a common issue among older adults, particularly women, and physical inactivity is one of the risk factors.

Aim of the research
This study aimed to compare the cognitive functioning of older women with varying levels of physical fitness and independence, as well as to evaluate the potential usefulness of selected tools for screening dementia symptoms in primary healthcare.

Material and methods
The study included 193 women (mean age: 77.59 ±8.22 years), of whom 98 were patients in long-term care facilities (ZOL) (group A), and 55 were participants at the University of the Third Age (group B). Five tools were utilized: screening tests to evaluate cognitive functions (MMSE, VFT, CDT), mood (GDS), and a self-reported questionnaire.

Results
Significant differences were observed between groups A and B for all tested variables (p < 0.001). No significant correlations were found among MMSE, VFT, CDT, and GDS scores (p > 0.05). The overall model, which included age and VFT scores, explained 51.7% of the variance in MMSE scores ( F = 36.93; p < 0.001) between both groups.

Conclusions
Screening for cognitive functioning and mood disorders seems justified for all women over 60. However, the presence of accompanying disabilities should expedite this process. For practical reasons, the MMSE seems to be the optimal tool for assessing cognitive functions in primary care, followed by the VFT.