Cognitive reserve in a sample of Cuban older adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment

IntroductionAging is a natural process that occurs in all individuals. Due to the increase in aging figures worldwide, the diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment and other dementia syndromes has increased. An element of essential relevance in protecting against the risk of suffering from dementia is the cognitive reserve. ObjectiveTo indicate the levels of cognitive reserve in a sample of Cuban older adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment. MethodsAn exploratory study was carried out using questionnaires, with a cross-sectional, quantitative design. The sampling was non-probabilistic and intentional, obtaining a sample of 51 older adults with mild cognitive impairment. The information collection was carried out from the Cognitive Reserve Scale (CRS). Quantitative data was analyzed through frequency analysis. ResultsMost of the participants showed higher levels of cognitive reserve for carrying out activities of daily life and for relating to other people. The dimensions most affected were Formation / Information and Hobbies. ConclusionsThe research allowed a preliminary approach to the cognitive reserve of older adults. It would be interesting to conduct investigations of this nature in larger samples, including groups of healthy controls, which would allow comparison of results. In addition, it would be relevant to investigate the impact of institutionalization.