Research identifies potential factors influencing cognitive decline

Recent research highlights different factors that may influence cognitive decline in older adults. A study from the Karolinska Institute in Sweden, published in the European Heart Journal, suggests a potential link between the use of certain direct oral anticoagulants (NOACs) and a slower progression of cognitive impairment in patients living with Alzheimer's disease and atrial fibrillation.

The Swedish study analyzed data from 7,308 older adults, comparing those using NOACs against those using warfarin or no anticoagulant treatment. While researchers emphasize these medications are not a treatment or prevention for Alzheimer's, the findings suggest new avenues for studying how blood circulation and clot prevention might affect cognitive speed.

Separately, research conducted by Hospital del Mar and the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB) indicates that prolonged grief can cause or accelerate cognitive decline. The study, published in the Revista Colombiana de Psiquiatría, identifies prolonged grief—a pathological reaction lasting over six months—as an independent risk factor for cognitive impairment.

This emotional distress can negatively impact memory, attention, information processing speed, executive functions, and decision-making. Researchers suggest including grief assessment in comprehensive geriatric evaluations to allow for early intervention.