WORLD JOURNAL OF ADVANCE
HEALTHCARE RESEARCH

Dalia Sabah Mohammed Ridha* and Gaith Sabri Mohammed

ABSTRACT

Background: With the global rise in the elderly population, addressing cognitive impairment has become crucial due to its impact on memory, learning, concentration, and decision-making, leading to functional disability and increased societal burden. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of cognitive impairment among older adults, identify associated factors, and evaluate the applicability of a simple screening tool for early detection in primary health care centers. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Baghdad on a convenient sample of 200 elderly individuals (>60 years old) attending four primary health care centers under the Al-Karkh Health Directorate from March 1 to August 31, 2024. Data were collected through direct interviews using the Elderly Cognitive Assessment Questionnaire. Descriptive statistics described study variables, while the Chi-square test assessed associations between categorical variables, considering a p-value of <0.05 statistically significant. Results: The study found that 17.5% of participants had cognitive impairment. Significant associations were observed between cognitive impairment and low educational level, lack of work experience, history of hypertension, and smoking (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Cognitive impairment is increasingly prevalent among older adults in Al-Karkh, Baghdad. Key risk factors include low education, unemployment, smoking, and hypertension. Implementing a simple screening tool, such as the Elderly Cognitive Assessment Questionnaire, in primary health care centers is recommended for early detection and intervention.