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Factors Influencing Cognitive Function According to Degree of Cognition in Community Dwelling Elders

Purpose: This study was done to identify differences in factors influencing cognitive function according to the cognition of community dwelling elders. Methods: A convenience sample of 565 community dwelling elders participated in this study and from May to June, 2010 trained research assistants collected data using structured questionnaires. Collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-test, one-way ANOVA, correlation, and multiple regression with the SPSS Win 15.0 version. Results: The elders had a slightly low degree of cognitive function. Of the 565 elders, 41.1% were in the normal group for cognitive function and 58.9% in the mild impairment group. Although there were no significant differences in general characteristics between the groups, factors influencing cognitive function were different. Factors influencing elders in the normal group were leisure activity and moderately good health status. These variables accounted for 5.7% of the variance in cognitive function. Factors influencing elders in the mild impairment group were leisure activity, depression, and education level limited to elementary school graduation. These variables accounted for 19.9% of the variance cognitive function. Conclusion: This study provides comprehensive understanding of factors influencing cognitive function in elders. Differentiated nursing interventions according to degree of cognitive function are suggested.