Comorbid Chronic Conditions Among Older Adults with Subjective Cognitive Decline, United States, 2015–2017

Background and Objectives Subjective cognitive decline (SCD), the self-reported experience of worsening or more frequent confusion or memory loss, may be associated with the development or worsening of chronic conditions or complicating their self-management. The objectives of this study were to (i) establish the prevalence of chronic conditions and multiple chronic conditions among adults with SCD, and (ii) compare the prevalence of chronic conditions among people with and without SCD and SCD-related functional limitations. Research Design and Methods Data were analyzed from the Cognitive Decline module of the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System administered in 49 states, DC, and Puerto Rico during 2015–2017. Analyses included 220,221 respondents aged 45 years or older who answered the SCD screening question and reported their chronic conditions. Weighted estimates were calculated and chi-square tests were used for comparisons. Results Persons with a history of stroke, heart disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder had significantly higher prevalence of SCD compared to those without. The prevalence of having at least one chronic condition was higher among adults with SCD compared to adults without SCD in each age group (45–64 years: 77.4% vs 47.1%, p < .001; ≥65 years: 86.3% vs 73.5%, p < .001). Among those with SCD, the prevalence of an SCD-related functional limitation was higher among those with at least one chronic condition compared to those with none (45–64 years: 63.3% vs 42.4%, p < .001; ≥65 years: 40.0% vs 25.1%, p < .001). Only half of adults with SCD and a chronic condition had discussed their SCD with a health care professional. Discussion and Implications SCD and chronic conditions commonly co-occur. Having a chronic condition was associated with greater SCD-related functional limitations. SCD might complicate the management of chronic conditions, and patients and providers should be aware of increased risk for cognitive decline in the presence of chronic diseases.