Cognitive functions among Hong Kong Chinese people with schizophrenia

Persons with schizophrenia show deficits in a variety of cognitive domains including executive function, attention, memory and language. Similar interest in studying the impact of cognitive deficits on the everyday functioning of people with schizophrenia has been documented. This study examined the cognitive functioning among Hong Kong Chinese schizophrenic patients compared with other patient groups, and its relationship with functional outcome, especially in the social aspect. Results indicated that schizophrenic patients presented with mild cognitive problems compared with neurosurgical and demented patients. Initial support was found in relating cognitive functions, as measured by Neurobehavioral Cognitive Status Examination, with functional outcome as measured by Functional Independence Measures. The implication for community rehabilitation is also discussed.