The relationship between cognitive function and performance in instrumental activities of daily living in older adults

Introduction: Deficits in cognition have been found to be associated with problems in performing daily activities; however, it is unknown what specific domains of cognition are related to each daily activity. Method: Thirty-six occupational therapists identified the 20 most important instrumental activities of daily living for older adults and the cognitive demands required. Thirty-two older adults rated the perceived mental effort when performing these activities. They were assessed on their cognitive functions. Descriptive statistics were used to report the results. The Pearson correlation coefficient was used to identify relationships between cognitive functions and perceived mental effort. Results: Activities relating to ‘communication’, ‘financial management’, ‘health management’ and ‘safety and emergency management’ require more cognitive demands. Results from the older adults showed the highest significant correlations in immediate memory and ‘paying bills’ (r = 0.54), delayed memory and ‘following emergency procedures’ and ‘paying bills’ (rs = 0.52), and executive functioning and ‘making and keeping medical appointments’ (r = −0.49). Conclusion: Findings contribute to the emerging understanding of specific cognitive domains related to the instrumental activities of daily living. The results can be used to reframe and improve intervention strategies for individuals with cognitive decline to maintain or improve performance in daily activities.