RESUMO
In this study, we examined the effects of memory training on cognitive function and depressive symptoms in a cohort of 794 healthy adults aged 50 years or older. Participants were divided into an active intervention group and a passive intervention group, with various cognitive measures assessed over a one-year period. Univariate analysis revealed that the active intervention group consistently outperformed the passive group in measures of memory self-perception (Memory Complaint Questionnaire-MACQ), depressive symptoms (Geriatric Depression Scale-GDS-4), verbal memory and recall ability (A3LP), and verbal fluency (VF). Significant differences in MACQ scores were observed between the two groups at all time points, indicating enhanced memory self-perception in the active group. GDS-4 scores consistently favored the active group, suggesting a reduction in depressive symptoms. A3LP scores demonstrated that the active group had better verbal memory and recall abilities. VF scores consistently favored the active group, indicating superior language skills and cognitive flexibility. Linear regression model and mixed linear regression model reinforced these findings, with highly significant interaction effects observed between the active/passive group, gender, age, education, and time. These effects were particularly pronounced for MACQ and A3LP scores, indicating the combined impact of these factors on memory self-perception and verbal memory. This study highlights the positive impact of memory training intervention on cognitive function and depressive symptoms in older adults and underscores the importance of considering gender, age, and education in cognitive interventions. Notably, these benefits persist for up to six months from the end of the program. The results provide valuable insights into cognitive changes in aging populations and suggest that tailored memory training programs can yield significant improvements.
RESUMO
Whether elderly patients with asymptomatic or minimally symptomatic primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) should be treated or not is still under debate. Several literature reports have shown improvements in terms of bone density and physical and mental well-being after surgical resolution of PHPT. Here, we present the case of a 93-year-old hypertensive woman, who had suffered for one year from cognitive impairment, accompanied during the last month by behavioral alterations (and polyuria and polydipsia), which resulted in sopor leading to hospitalization. A CT brain scan evidenced cortical atrophy and cerebrovascular disease, and biochemical analyses were remarkable for hypercalcemia (11.4-12.6 mg/dL, corrected for albumin levels) associated with increased parathormone levels (95.4-100.6 pg/mL). A diagnosis of PHPT was established. Densitometry evaluation of radius showed osteopenia. Withdrawal of psycho-therapy drugs and thiazidic, together with i.v. saline hydration and loop diuretics, significantly improved the patient's mental state and resolved behavioral alterations. As the patient and her relatives refused the surgical option, and the clinical situation improved after medical normalization of calcium levels, PHPT was managed conservatively, and calcium levels were maintained within the normal range through i.v. administration of zoledronate at 8-week intervals. Our case highlights the importance of considering hypercalcemia as the cause of onset of behavioral alterations and worsening of mental condition in elderly patients with cognitive decline. Therapy with bisphosphonates in patients with PHPT who are unfit for or refuse surgery seems advisable, but needs further study.
