The Relationship Between Depression and Anxiety in Older Adults and Memory Functionality: An Assessment Using Neuropsychological Tests

This research evaluates memory function, depression and anxiety symptoms in elderly individuals and examines the relationship between these variables. The Digit Span Test and the 10/36 Spatial Recall Test were used to evaluate memory function, and the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale-21 was used to evaluate mental health. Participants were reached through Healthy Ageing and Support Centres, Public Education Courses and an easily accessible sampling method. Participants were included in the research based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. The tests and questionnaires were administered by a clinical psychologist and a clinical neuropsychologist. The study sample consisted of 160 volunteer participants aged between 66 and 74. The average age of the participants was M= 68.00 (SD=2.31). The correlation analysis revealed that increasing levels of depression and anxiety were associated with decreasing memory performance. In gender comparisons, while there was no significant difference between female participants and male participants in terms of memory functionality, it was determined that female participants had higher levels of depression and anxiety than male participants. The findings of the research draw attention to the relationship between mental health and cognitive functionality. In conclusion, managing depression and anxiety in older adults is critical for preserving cognitive function. In this regard, multidisciplinary approaches are needed to develop strategies that support both the cognitive and mental health of older adults.