Cognitive impairment and physical disability as predictors of stroke in a Canadian elderly population

grantor: University of TorontoThis thesis assessed the influence of cognitive impairment and physical disability as predictors of incidence of first stroke, overall stroke, and stroke mortality in 9008 elderly living across Canada. Cognitive impairment, physical disability, age in ten year increments, diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart and circulation problems were significant bivariate predictors of first stroke. The same risk factors including a history of stroke were significant bivariate predictors of overall stroke incidence. Cognitive impairment, physical disability, age and previous stroke were significant bivariate and multivariate predictors of stroke mortality. Cognitive impairment did not retain its significance in the multivariate analysis of first stroke or overall stroke incidence. Physical disability is an important risk factor for stroke in elderly populations, however more research on the mechanisms behind the increased risk for stroke from limitations in physical function is needed. Cognitive impairment may be important in predicting more severe strokes.M.Sc