Depressive Symptoms, Cognition, and Everyday Function Among Community-Residing Older Adults

Objective: The aim of this study was to understand the relationships among depressive symptoms, cognition, and functional performance in a community-based sample of older adults. Method: Older adults (N = 885) from the Staying Keen in Later Life study completed tests of executive function, speed of processing, and memory. The Center for Epidemiologic Depression Scale assessed depressive symptoms. The Timed Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Test assessed participants' everyday functional performance. Results: Depressive symptoms had significant associations with measures of executive function, speed of processing, memory, and everyday functional performance. Cognitive performance completely mediated the association between depressive symptoms and everyday function. Discussion: Among community-dwelling older adults, depressive symptoms were associated with impaired cognition across multiple domains, which detrimentally affected everyday function. Health care providers should be aware of these associations to monitor and manage changes in depressive symptoms and cognitive performance and thereby potentially mitigate functional decline.