Predictive Factors of Rapid Cognitive Decline in Patients with Alzheimer Disease

AIM To determine predictive factors associated with rapid cognitive decline (RCD) in elderly patients suffering from Alzheimer disease (AD). METHODS Patients suffering from mild to moderate AD were included. RCD was defined as the loss of at least 3 points on the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) over 12 months. Factors associated with RCD were identified by logistic regression. RESULTS Among 123 patients included, 61 were followed up until 12 months. RCD occurred in 46% of patients (n = 28). Polymedication (p < 0.0001), the fact that the caregiver was the child or spouse of the patient (p < 0.0001) and autonomy for washing (p < 0.0001) were protective factors against RCD, while the presence of caregiver burden (p < 0.0001) was shown to be a risk factor for RCD. CONCLUSION Early detection of the RCD risk in AD patients could make it possible to anticipate the patient's medical needs and adjust the care plan for caregiver burden.