Mediating Effect of Cognitive Function on Health-Related Quality of Life Among Older Adults with Cardiovascular Disease in the United States

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are related to disorders of the heart and blood vessels. They may become serious problems, especially in older adults. They could also negatively affect the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of patients. Moreover, patients with CVDs may also experience cognitive issues, such as memory loss, that could be considered as a mediator in the association of CVD with HRQoL. The purpose of the study was to analyze the relationship among cognitive function, HRQoL, and CVD among older adults using a cross-sectional sample from a secondary database, including the 2019 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) representing the 2019 United States (U.S.) population. To study the association of these variables, the Wilson and Cleary Model for HRQoL was applied to the current study. The weighted survey logistic regression method was chosen to extract the data for analysis. The findings of the study showed the association between CVD and HRQoL, and cognitive function and HRQoL in patients with CVD. It has also shown the partial mediating effect of cognitive function on the relationship between CVD and HRQoL. These findings have implications for the nursing profession. Older adults with CVD should be thoughtfully evaluated by health care providers to identify cognitive deficits and assist in management of HRQoL. The management of CVD progression alone may not provide optimal clinical benefits. Identification of cognitive changes in older patients with a CVD condition should be considered in maintaining or improving HRQoL.