The Relationship Between Cognitive and Physical Function in Older Adults with Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Literature Review

Abstract

Intact cognitive function is a crucial underpinning for the performance of daily activities in people with chronic diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Older adults with RA may have the increased burden of physical function difficulties due to the impact of both age-related cognitive decline and RA-related impairment. Population-based studies reviewed in this article found significant cross-sectional and longitudinal relationships between cognitive function and physical function in older adults with and without comorbid health conditions. Although no study specifically examined this relationship in older adults with RA, interventions designed to enhance functional capacity by minimizing cognitive impairment may benefit older adults with RA. More studies are needed that investigate the relationship between cognitive and physical function in older adults with RA to eventually improve functional status and quality of life.