Self-reported sleep disturbances are associated with poorer cognitive performance in older adults with hypertension: a multi-parameter risk factor investigation

Post-traumatic stress in older, community-dwelling adults with hypertension during the COVID-19 pandemic: An investigation of pre-pandemic sociodemographic, health, and vascular and inflammatory biomarker predictors

COVID-19 pandemic-related traumatic stress (PRTS) symptoms are reported in various populations, but risk factors in older adults with chronic medical conditions, remain understudied. We therefore examined correlates and pre-pandemic predictors of PRTS in older adults with hypertension during COVID-19. Participants in California, aged 61-92 years (n = 95), participated in a pre-pandemic healthy aging trial and later completed a COVID-19 assessment (May to September 2020). Those experiencing ⩾1 PRTS symptom (n = 40), and those without PRTS symptoms (n = 55), were compared. The PRTS+ group had poorer mental and general health and greater impairment in instrumental activities of daily living. Pre-pandemic biomarkers of vascular inflammation did not predict increased odds of PRTS; however, greater pre-pandemic anxiety and female gender did predict PRTS during COVID-19. Our findings highlight PRTS as a threat to healthy aging in older adults with hypertension; targeted approaches are needed to mitigate this burden, particularly for females and those with pre-existing anxiety.

Cognitive function and associated factors among postmenopausal women with hypertension and natural menopause in Taiwan

Hypertension is prevalent among postmenopausal women worldwide and is a risk factor for cognitive impairment. This study examined the cognitive differences between Taiwanese postmenopausal women with and without hypertension after natural menopause and identified factors associated with cognitive function in hypertensive postmenopausal women. A two-group comparative design study of 171 Taiwanese postmenopausal participants (mean age = 64.8±6.6) was conducted in southern Taiwan. Cognitive performance on neuropsychological tests was evaluated, and demographic, health, menopausal, and disease related variables were assessed. Compared to the non-hypertensive group, women with hypertension showed significantly worse performance and a higher percentage of impairment in global cognitive functioning and memory. Fewer years of education and longer duration of hypertension were associated with lower global cognitive function, and increased age was associated with lower scores in delayed memory. Cognitive screening as well as training on global cognitive functioning and memory are needed for postmenopausal hypertensive women. (148 words).