Screening of cognitive status in older adults and cluster analysis with the health variables

The study aimed to screen the cognitive status of 32 older adults aged 60-89 years residing in the North 24 Parganas district, West Bengal, India. The screening of cognitive status was carried out by trained personnel using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scale. Hierarchical cluster analysis was performed on anthropometric variables, BIA-measured body composition parameters, physical activity level, dietary nutrient intake, and cognitive performance using SPSS Gradpack 29.0. The results revealed distinct cluster formations between the cognitive screening score (MoCA score) and other health variables, including anthropometric variables, BIA-measured body composition parameters, level of physical activity, and dietary nutrient consumption. These findings have significant practical implications for the early detection and management of cognitive impairment in older adults, providing valuable insights for future studies and interventions in this area. This emphasis on practical implications is designed to engage the reader and pique their interest in the study's findings.