Independent and differential effects of obesity and hypertension on cognitive and functional abilities

Abstract

Objective: The primary aim of this study was to identify the independent and differential associations of obesity and hypertension with cognitive, physical, and directly observed functional abilities among middle age and older adults. Method: Participants were 119 adults between the ages of 51 and 89, who underwent a cross-sectional assessment of cognitive, physical, functional and relevant health-related variables. Results: Obesity predicted significantly poorer executive functions (β =-.301, t =-3.86, p < .001), mobility (β = .329, t = 3.59, p < .001), observed functional abilities (β = .220, t = 2.52, p = .013), and self-reported ability to perform activities of daily living that require physical capability (β =-.365, t =-4.23, p < .001). In contrast, hypertension was not independently associated with any of the outcome measures (ps > .05). Results from the path analysis revealed that executive functions mediated the association between obesity and poorer directly observed functional abilities. Additionally, obesity had a direct and indirect (through mobility) effect on self-reported basic activities of daily living. Conclusions: These findings suggest a link between obesity, executive functions, and limitations in physical function and instrumental activities of daily living among middle age and older adults, however, longitudinal research is needed to further delineate the trajectory of these factors.