Investigations into the connections between hypertension-related factors and cognitive abilities, emotional state, and behavioral issues in older adults have generated inconsistent outcomes. One likely reason for these varying conclusions is that previous work has often failed to properly account for the role of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) when performing statistical adjustments. With this in mind, the current study explored the cross-sectional links among hypertension-related indicators, ACEI treatment, and cognitive performance, mood, and behavioral symptoms in very elderly individuals. Data for this analysis came from the IlSIRENTE database, a prospective cohort study that included every person aged 80 years and older living in the Sirente geographic area (n = 364). Blood pressure (BP) readings were obtained after participants had rested for 20 to 40 minutes while sitting upright. All medications were classified according to the Anatomical Therapeutic and Chemical coding system. Cognitive function, mood, and behavioral symptoms were evaluated using the Minimum Data Set Home Care tool. Levels of inflammatory markers in the blood were also determined.
Hypertension-related measures demonstrated significant associations with several cognitive, mood, and behavioral outcomes after adjusting for relevant covariates. Nevertheless, only the inverse relationship between hypertension and reduced difficulties with short-term memory stayed statistically significant. Compared with normotensive individuals, those with hypertension showed lower blood concentrations of inflammatory markers. The findings suggest that higher blood pressure values are linked to fewer self-reported memory complaints among very old adults. In addition, hypertensive participants had reduced levels of inflammatory markers in their blood. The use of ACEIs may influence this overall picture.
