Does social activity influence the accuracy of subjective memory deficit? Findings from a British community survey.
OBJECTIVE
To investigate the association between subjective memory deficit (SMD) and cognitive impairment in a community population and modification of this association by level of social activity.


METHODS
Cross-sectional survey.


METHODS
A defined geographic catchment area in north London, England.


METHODS
Six hundred fifty-four residents aged 65 and older.


METHODS
SMD and cognitive impairment were derived from the relevant sections of the short Comprehensive Assessment and Referral Evaluation instrument, and social activity was derived from the Social Support Deficit Scale. Potential confounding factors taken into account included depression and level of functioning.


RESULTS
Twenty-nine percent of the sample reported SMD, which was associated with objective impairment (odds ratio (OR)=3.4, 95% confidence interval (CI)=2.1-5.8). This association was stronger in participants with higher social activity (OR=6.1, 95% CI=2.9-13.0) than in those who were more isolated (OR=1.8, 95% CI=0.8-3.8). The interaction with social activity remained significant after adjustment for potential confounding factors (P=.03).


CONCLUSIONS
A person's social environment influences the accuracy of SMD. This may reflect the level of cognitive demands encountered in daily life or the extent to which others notice cognitive impairment.
Trouton
Alex
A
Institute of Education, London, United Kingdom.
Stewart
Robert
R
Prince
Martin
M
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D006306:Health Surveys; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008569:Memory Disorders; D016017:Odds Ratio; D012931:Social Environment; D012944:Social Support; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors; D006113:United Kingdom