Major neurocognitive impairment among Elders in Southwest Ethiopia community based cross sectional study

Major Neurocognitive impairment is a severe, progressive deterioration in cognitive functions commonly reported among elderly populations that leads to disability and/or even death. It has a tremendous impact on patients, families, and society. However, less is known about its prevalence and possible risk factors associated with among elders in a community setting in Ethiopia. Hence, the aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and associated factors of major neurocognitive impairment among elders. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among randomly selected 656 elders from July 10 to September 10, 2023. Multistage sampling technique was employed to recruit study participants. Data was collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. The Rowland Universal Dementia Assessment Scale (RUDAS) was used to measure major neurocognitive impairment with a cut-off score of ≤ 22. Data were entered into Epi Data version 4.6.2 and exported to SPSS version 26 software for analysis. Binary Logistic regression was used to measure the association between dependent and independent variables. The final statistical significance was declared at a P-value < 0.05 and an odds ratio with 95%CI was used to measure the strength of association. A total of 646 elders participated in the study with a response rate of 98.45%. The study finding indicates 38.4% (95%CI = 34%, 42%) of the respondents have Major Neurocognitive impairment. Age [AOR = 1.12, 95%CI (1.08, 1.16)], having depression [AOR = 2.59, 95%CI (1.68, 3.98], being malnourished [AOR = 2.27 95%CI (1.26, 4.07)], having insomnia [AOR = 1.86, 95%CI (1.17, 2.97)], and poor social support [AOR = 2.52, 95%CI (1.37, 4.63)] were factors significantly associated with Major Neurocognitive impairment. Over one-third of elders have Major Neurocognitive impairment. Age, depression, insomnia, nutrition, and social support were factors associated with major neurocognitive impairment. Therefore, community screening and management of modifiable factors are important to reduce the risk of Major Neurocognitive impairment and its progression.