Reduced Gray Matter Volume Is Associated With Poorer Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Performance in Heart Failure

Disparities in 30-Day Readmission Between Medicare/Medicaid and Private Insurance Among Patients With Heart Failure Screened for Cognitive Impairment

BACKGROUND

Racial disparities exist among patients with heart failure (HF). HF is often comorbid with cognitive impairment. Appropriate self-care can prevent HF hospital readmissions but requires access to resources through insurance. Racial differences exist between insurance types, and this may influence the disparity between races and patients with HF and cognitive impairment.

OBJECTIVE

The objectives of this study were to examine the relationships between insurance type and self-care stratified by race and to assess for differences in time-to-30-day readmission among patients with HF with cognitive impairment.

METHODS

This is a secondary analysis of data collected among hospitalized patients with HF with cognitive impairment. Patients completed surveys on self-care (Self-Care of Heart Failure Index), HF knowledge (Dutch Heart Failure Knowledge Scale), depression (Geriatric Depression Scale), and social support (Enhancing Recovery in Coronary Heart Disease Social Support Inventory). Socioeconomic data were collected. Linear models were created to examine the relationships between insurance type and self-care by race. Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox regression were used to assess readmission.

RESULTS

The sample of 125 patients with HF with cognitive impairment was predominantly Black (68%, n = 85) and male (53%, n = 66). The sample had either Medicare/Medicaid (62%, n = 78) or private insurance (38%, n = 47). Black patients with HF with cognitive impairment and private insurance reported higher self-care confidence compared with Black patients with HF with cognitive impairment and Medicare/Medicaid (P < .05). Medicare/Medicaid was associated with a higher frequency of 30-day readmission and a faster time-to-readmission.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with HF with cognitive impairment and Medicare/Medicaid insurance reported lower self-care confidence and more likely to be readmitted within 30 days.

Effects of balance training on cognitive function and activities of daily living in older adult patients with heart failure: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

The potential of the effect of balance training on improving cognitive functions and functional activities in vulnerable groups, including the older adults with heart failure (HF), is unknown.

AIM

The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of a simple balance training supervised by nurses on cognitive functions and activities of daily living (ADLs) of the older adults with HF.

METHODS

In this clinical trial study, 75 older adults with HF were allocated to two groups of balance training (BT) and usual care (UC) using stratified block randomization. The intervention consisted of a set of dynamic and static BT, 4 times/session per week, each session lasting 30 min, for 8 weeks, which was performed at the participant's home under the supervision of a nurse. For the control group, UC was provided. The outcomes of the study, including cognitive function, basic ADLs, and instrumental ADLs (IADLs), were measured by the Montreal cognitive assessment-basic (MoCA-B), Barthel index-ADL, and Lawton scale-IADL before and after the intervention.

RESULTS

The between-group analysis showed, in two groups, a statistically significant difference between the changes in the mean scores: all subscales of cognitive function and MoCA-B total score (P < 0.001), as well as basic ADLs and IADLs (P < 0.001), before and after the intervention. Compared with the control group/UC, the cognitive function, basic ADL, and IADL of the intervention group/BT were improved significantly at 8 weeks.

CONCLUSION

The results suggested that home-based balance training led by nurse can improve global cognitive function and basic ADL and IADL in the older adults with HF.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinical trials registration number IRCT20150919024080N18.

A Correlative Relationship Between Heart Failure and Cognitive Impairment: A Narrative Review

Heart failure (HF) is a chronic condition affecting millions of people worldwide. While the cardinal manifestations of HF are related to the cardiovascular system, it has become progressively evident that mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is also a significant complication of the disease. In fact, a significant number of patients with HF may experience MCI, which can manifest as deficits in attention, memory, executive function, and processing speed. The mechanisms responsible for cognitive dysfunction in HF are intricate and multifactorial. Possible factors contributing to this condition include decreased cerebral blood flow, thrombogenicity associated with HF, systemic inflammatory conditions, and proteotoxicity. MCI in HF has significant clinical implications, as it is linked to poorer quality of life, increased morbidity and mortality, and higher healthcare costs. Additionally, MCI can disrupt self-care behaviors, adherence to medication, and decision-making abilities, all of which are crucial for effectively managing HF. However, there is currently no gold standard diagnostic tool and follow-up strategy for MCI in HF patients. There is limited knowledge on the prevention and treatment of MCI. In conclusion, MCI is a common and clinically important complication of HF. Considering the substantial influence of MCI on patient outcomes, it is imperative for healthcare providers to be cognizant of this issue and integrate cognitive screening and management strategies into the care of HF patients.

The Emerging Role of Combined Brain/Heart Magnetic Resonance Imaging for the Evaluation of Brain/Heart Interaction in Heart Failure

Heart failure (HF) patients frequently develop brain deficits that lead to cognitive dysfunction (CD), which may ultimately also affect survival. There is an important interaction between brain and heart that becomes crucial for survival in patients with HF. Our aim was to review the brain/heart interactions in HF and discuss the emerging role of combined brain/heart magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) evaluation. A scoping review of published literature was conducted in the PubMed EMBASE (OVID), Web of Science, Scopus and PsycInfo databases. Keywords for searches included heart failure, brain lesion, brain, cognitive, cognitive dysfunction, magnetic resonance imaging cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging electroencephalogram, positron emission tomography and echocardiography. CD testing, the most commonly used diagnostic approach, can identify neither subclinical cases nor the pathophysiologic background of CD. A combined brain/heart MRI has the capability of diagnosing brain/heart lesions at an early stage and potentially facilitates treatment. Additionally, valuable information about edema, fibrosis and cardiac remodeling, provided with the use of cardiovascular magnetic resonance, can improve HF risk stratification and treatment modification. However, availability, familiarity with this modality and cost should be taken under consideration before final conclusions can be drawn. Abnormal CD testing in HF patients is a strong motivating factor for applying a combined brain/heart MRI to identify early brain/heart lesions and modify risk stratification accordingly.

Brain Imaging Changes and Related Risk Factors of Cognitive Impairment in Patients With Heart Failure

Background/Aims

To explore the imaging changes and related risk factors of heart failure (HF) patients with cognitive impairment (CI).

Methods

A literature search was systematically carried out in PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library. In this systematic review, important relevant information was extracted according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The methodological quality was assessed by three scales according to the different study types.

Results

Finally, 66 studies were included, involving 33,579 patients. In the imaging changes, the severity of medial temporal lobe atrophy (MTA) and the decrease of gray Matter (GM) volume were closely related to the cognitive decline. The reduction of cerebral blood flow (CBF) may be correlated with CI. However, the change of white matter (WM) volume was possibly independent of CI in HF patients. Specific risk factors were analyzed, and the data indicated that the increased levels of B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP)/N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), and the comorbidities of HF, including atrial fibrillation (AF), diabetes mellitus (DM) and anemia were definitely correlated with CI in patients with HF, respectively. Certain studies had also obtained independent correlation results. Body mass index (BMI), depression and sleep disorder exhibited a tendency to be associated with CI. Low ejection fraction (EF) value (<30%) was inclined to be associated with the decline in cognitive function. However, no significant differences were noted between heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) in cognitive scores.

Conclusion

BNP/NT-proBNP and the comorbidities of HF including AF, DM and anemia were inextricably correlated with CI in patients with HF, respectively. These parameters were independent factors. The severity of MTA, GM volume, BMI index, depression, sleep disorder, and low EF value (<30%) have a disposition to associated with CI. The reduction in the CBF volume may be related to CI, whereas the WM volume may not be associated with CI in HF patients. The present systematic review provides an important basis for the prevention and treatment of CI following HF.

Heart Failure and Disability in Community-Dwelling Older Adults in the United States-1999 to 2018: Data From National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

To examine the associations of heart failure (HF) with five domains of disability while controlling for covariates. Subjects with HF and aged ≥ 50 years were selected from the 1999 to 2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data. Five domains of disability were measured with 19 physical tasks. Logistic regression with adjustment for covariates was conducted. The prevalence of HF in 27,185 adults aged ≥ 50 years was 6.37%. After controlling for demographics and smoking, logistic regression showed that HF was associated with 2.8 to 3.4 times increased odds of all domains of disability compared to adults without HF, but with additional adjustments of covariates, the association was attenuated indicating the mediating effects of covariates. The future study may examine the mediating effects of covariates when intervening difficulties with lower extremity mobility and activities of daily living while considering in community-dwelling older adults with HF.

Dependence and reduced motor function in heart failure: future directions for well-being

While patients with heart failure experience a wide range of symptoms, evidence is mounting that patients with heart failure suffer from reduced functional independence. Given that the number of patients with heart failure is rising and considering the adverse outcomes of reduced functional independence, understanding the underlying mechanisms of reduced functionality in patients with heart failure is of increasing importance. Yet, little information exists on how heart failure negatively affects functional independence, including motor function. This article summarizes reports of reduced independence and highlights its significant adverse outcomes in the patients with heart failure. Finally, this article discusses potential causes of reduced independence based on existing reports of impaired central and peripheral nervous systems in the patients with heart failure. Overall, the article provides a solid foundation for future studies investigating motor impairments in patients with heart failure. Such studies may lead to advances in treatment and prevention of reduced independence associated with heart failure, which ultimately contribute to the well-being of patients with heart failure.

Cognitive performance is associated with worse prognosis in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction

AIMS

Heart failure (HF) is a complex clinical syndrome with multiple comorbidities. Cognitive impairment, stress, anxiety, depression, and lower quality of life are prevalent in HF. Herein, we explore the interplay between these parameters and study their value to predict major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) and health-related quality of life (HrQoL) in patients with HF with reduced ejection fraction using guideline recommended assessment tools.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We conducted a longitudinal study using a sample of 65 patients from two hospitals. A battery of tests was applied to assess cognition [Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA)], stress (Perceived Stress Scale-10), anxiety, and depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale) at baseline. MACEs were registered using clinical records. HrQoL was estimated using the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ). A descriptive statistical analysis was conducted, and multiple linear and Cox regression models conducted to determine the predictive value of neurocognitive parameters and HrQoL in MACE. Both MoCA [hazard ratio = 0.906 (0.829-0.990); P = 0.029] and KCCQ scores were predictors of MACE, but not of overall mortality. Anxiety, depression, and stress scores did not predict MACE. However, anxiety (β = -0.326; P = 0.012) and depression levels (β = -0.309; P = 0.014) were independent predictors of the KCCQ score.

CONCLUSIONS

The MoCA score and HrQoL were predictors of MACE-free survival. Anxiety and depression were good predictors of HrQoL, but not of MACE-free survival.

The central nervous system and heart failure

The view that chronic heart failure was exclusively a disease of the heart dominated the cardiovascular literature until relatively recently. However, over the last 40 years it has increasingly come to be seen as a multisystem disease. Aside from changes in the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems and the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, adaptations to the lungs, muscles and gastrointestinal tract have been clearly documented. It is clear that the brain and CNS are also affected in patients with heart failure, although this is often under recognized. The purpose of this review is to summarize the changes in the structure and biochemical function of the CNS in patients with chronic heart failure and to discuss their potential importance.

Management of Noncardiac Comorbidities in Chronic Heart Failure

Prevalence of heart failure is increasing, especially in the elderly population. Noncardiac comorbidities complicate heart failure care and are increasingly common in elderly patients with reduced or preserved ejection fraction heart failure, owing to prolongation of patient's lives by advances in chronic heart failure (CHF) management. Common comorbidities include respiratory disease, renal dysfunction, anemia, arthritis, obesity, diabetes mellitus, cognitive dysfunction, and depression. These conditions contribute to the progression of the disease and may alter the response to treatment, partly as polypharmacy is inevitable in these patients. Cardiologists and other physicians caring for patients with CHF need to be vigilant to comorbid conditions that complicate the care of these patients. There is now more guidance on management of noncardiac comorbidities in heart failure, and this article contains a comprehensive review of the most recent updates on management of noncardiac comorbidities in CHF.

Effects of an aerobic exercise program on driving performance in adults with cardiovascular disease

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) has been linked to decreases in driving performance and an increased crash risk. Regular exercise has been linked to improved driving performance among healthy adults. The aim of the current study was to investigate the relationship between a 12-week cardiac rehabilitation (CR) program and driving performance among individuals with CVD. Twenty-five individuals, including 12 cardiac adults and 13 healthy adults, took part in this study. Simulated driving performance was assessed using a standardized demerit-based scoring system at 0 and 12 weeks. Cardiac participants completed a 12-week CR program between evaluations. At baseline, cardiac participants had a higher number of demerit points than healthy adults (120.9±38.1 vs. 94.7±28.3, P=0.04). At follow-up, there was an improvement in both groups' driving evaluations, but the improvement was greater among the cardiac group such that there was no longer a difference in driving performance between both groups (94.6±30 vs. 86.9±34.8, P=0.51). Participation in an aerobic exercise-based CR program appears to lead to improvements in simulated driving performances of individuals with CVD.

Management of Cognitive Impairment in Heart Failure

OPINION STATEMENT

Cognitive impairment (CI) is an inclusive term to describe trouble with memory, learning, concentration, or decision-making. CI is highly prevalent in patients with heart failure (HF) and is known to be associated with a variety of poor outcomes. While published HF guidelines recommend screening for CI, they do not indicate how, due to a lack of consensus in the literature about which instrument to use. Our recommendation is to use the Mini-Cog for this purpose because of its brevity and utility in identifying patients with HF at high risk for hospitalization or mortality. At this time, there is minimal published clinical trial evidence about how to manage CI in patients with HF. Reasonable approaches to management may include following guideline-directed medical therapy for HF, treatment of hypertension and atrial fibrillation, management of depression, proactive diagnosis and treatment of sleep apnea, and encouragement of aerobic exercise and weight loss. Left ventricular assist device (LVAD) therapy in patients with Stage D HF may improve CI in the short term after implantation, though there is a risk of worsening CI in the intermediate and long term. Clinicians who care for patients with HF should routinely screen for CI and when identified should encourage interventions to support self-care, increase family involvement, and arrange for more frequent follow-up.