ASSESSMENT OF SERUM HOMOCYSTEINE LEVELS AND THEIR ASSOCIATION WITH COGNITIVE FUNCTION IN ELDERLY INDIVIDUALS

Abstract

Background: Elevated serum homocysteine levels have been implicated as a potential risk factor for cognitive decline in the elderly. This study explores the association between serum homocysteine levels and cognitive function among elderly individuals. Methods: This crosssectional study included 200 elderly participants aged 65 years and above. Serum homocysteine levels were measured, and cognitive function was assessed using standardized cognitive assessment tools. Participants were categorized based on their homocysteine levels (<10 μmol/L, 10-15 μmol/L, >15 μmol/L) and cognitive function (normal, mild cognitive impairment, dementia). Statistical analyses included logistic regression to assess the odds ratios for cognitive impairment associated with homocysteine levels, adjusting for potential confounders. Results: Of the 200 participants, 78 (39%) had high homocysteine levels (>15 μmol/L), which were significantly associated with cognitive impairment (OR = 2.5, 95% CI: 1.5-4.1, P < 0.01). The risk of cognitive impairment increased with higher homocysteine categories, particularly for those with levels >15 μmol/L compared to the reference group (<10 μmol/L). Cognitive assessments revealed that 40 (20%) of the participants were diagnosed with dementia, showing a strong association with elevated homocysteine levels. Conclusion: The findings suggest a significant association between high serum homocysteine levels and increased risk of cognitive impairment among elderly individuals. These results underscore the importance of monitoring and potentially managing homocysteine levels to mitigate cognitive decline in the aging population.