Forskningsartikler

Abstarct

Objective: To evaluate and compare the predictive value of eight dementia risk scores for late-life cognitive function and cognitive decline; ANU-ADRI, CAIDE, CogDrisk, LIBRA, LIBRA2, UKBDRS(-APOE), and a Lancet commission-based risk score.

Methods: Using Norwegian Trøndelag Health Study (HUNT) data, we calculated risk scores from lifestyle and health data of 7221 dementia-free participants (mean age: 76.8 years, 54.1% female) collected in HUNT3 (2006–2008). Cognitive function was assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment scale (MoCA) 11 years later in HUNT4 70+, and reassessed in 4716 participants 4 years thereafter. Associations between continuous risk scores or risk score tertiles, cognition and cognitive decline were examined using linear mixed-effects models. Logistic regression models were used to test associations between risk scores and a ≥ 3-point decline in MoCA scores.

Results: All risk scores were significantly associated with cognitive function and cognitive decline. Associations with cognitive function ranged from UKBDRS β per 1SD=-1.61(95%CI:-1.72,-1.51) to CAIDE (β=-0.74;95%CI:-0.82,-0.67), and with yearly cognitive decline from Lancet (β=-0.23;95%CI:-0.27,-0.18) to CAIDE (β=-0.04;95%CI:-0.07,-0.02). High-low risk group differences in cognitive function were largest for CogDrisk (β=-3.04;95%CI:-3.27,-2.81), LIBRA (β=-3.04;95%CI:-3.27,-2.80) and lowest for CAIDE (β=-1.65;95%CI:-1.86,-1.44). High-risk groups showed the steepest decline for UKBDRS-APOE (β=-0.43;95%CI:-0.52,-0.34), Lancet (β=-0.39;95%CI:-0.48,-0.30), and LIBRA (β=-0.38;95%CI:-0.47,-0.28). All scores predicted ≥3-point decline modestly: AUCs were highest for UKBDRS (AUC=0.61;95%CI:0.60,0.63), UKBDRS-APOE (0.61;95%CI:0.60,0.63), CogDrisk (0.60;95%CI:0.58,0.62), and Lancet (0.60;95%CI:0.58,0.61), but none outperformed a model including age and education alone (0.61;95%CI:0.60,0.63).

Conclusion: Risk scores captured meaningful gradients in cognition and decline but offered limited discriminatory accuracy beyond demographics, supporting their use for prevention-oriented risk profiling rather than prediction.

Josephine Stubs, Geir Selbæk, Bjørn Heine Strand, Gill Livingston, Kaarin J. Anstey, Kay Deckers, Mika Kivimäki, Steinar Krokstad, Fiona E. Mathews & Ellen Melbye Langballe

Abstract

Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors are associated with the risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Composite CVD risk scores integrate multiple risk factors and may capture the cumulative burden of CVD risk relevant to cognitive outcomes. However, the long-term association between established CVD risk scores and subsequent dementia and mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and potential differences in these associations between males and females, remains insufficiently studied. This study examined the association between NORRISK 2, a CVD risk model estimating 10-year risk of fatal- and non-fatal CVD, and the presence of dementia and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in males and females, after 22 years of follow-up.

Methods: Participants from The Trøndelag Health Study (HUNT), a longitudinal, population-based health study, were included. NORRISK 2 scores were based on data from HUNT2 (1995-1997). Cognitive status was assessed in the sub-study HUNT4 70+ (2017–2019) and categorized as cognitively unimpaired (CU), MCI, or dementia. We used multinomial logistic regression with NORRISK 2 as the predictor and cognitive status 22 years later as the main covariate.

Results: The study sample consisted of 6,971 participants (57.6% females, mean age at HUNT2 56.1 years). At HUNT4 70+, 14.0% of the participants had developed dementia, and 34.6% had developed MCI. Per one percent increase in NORRISK 2 score, the relative risk of developing dementia increased by 14% for males (relative risk ratio (RRR) = 1.14; 95% CI 1.12–1.17) and 28% for females (RRR = 1.28; 95% CI 1.25–1.31). The relative risk of developing MCI increased by 4% for men (RRR = 1.04; 95% CI 1.02–1.05) and 10% for women (RRR = 1.10; 95% CI 1.08–1.12).

Conclusion: A higher NORRISK 2 score was associated with an increased risk of dementia and MCI in both males and females, with the strongest associations observed in females.

Silje Kleven, Linda Ernstsen, Marte Kvello-Alme, Stian Lydersen, Geir Selbæk, Rannveig Sakshaug Eldholm

Abstract

Anne-S. Helvik, Büşra Nur Temür, Sverre Bergh, Kjerstin Tevik

Key Features

HUNT4 70+ is a sub-cohort of persons aged ≥70 years in the fourth survey of the Trøndelag Health Study (HUNT), established to provide data for aging research.

This population-based sample consists of 9956 individuals from the original HUNT catchment area, included between August 2017 and February 2019. In addition, an urban sample of 1743 persons was included in Trondheim city during October 2018–June 2019.

HUNT4 70+ covers comprehensive aspects of aging health, including clinical examinations, performance-based tests of physical and cognitive function, questionnaires, and biological samples.

High participation rates among the old and frail were obtained by examination in private homes and nursing homes when needed (15% of the participants).

The data can be linked to all national registers in Norway, such as cause of death, prescription, health-care utilization, and diagnosis registries.

Data access requires approval from a Norwegian Research Ethics Committee before application to the HUNT Research Centre. Contact HUNT Research Centre for collaboration and more info (ntnu.edu/hunt).

Håvard K Skjellegrind, Pernille Thingstad, Linda Gjøra, Marit Kolberg, Grete Kjelvik, Linda Ernstsen, Tone N Fagerhaug, Arnulf Langhammer, Steinar Krokstad, Bjørn Olav Åsvold, Marit Næss & Geir Selbæk

Abstract

Background
Older adults receiving psychiatric care are at greater risk of adverse events (AEs) than younger patients. This reflects broader vulnerabilities, including marginalization, complex health needs, and frequent transitions between care settings. It is therefore necessary to investigate AE risk in this population and to validate a previous version of the Global Trigger Tool – Psychiatry (GTT-P), originally developed for the general psychiatric population, for use with older psychiatric patients.ObjectiveTo apply the Norwegian version of GTT-P in psychiatric care for older adults, to identify the prevalence of AEs in this subpopulation.

Methods
A retrospective cohort study was conducted by reviewing medical records of 184 patients aged 65+ admitted to a psychiatric hospital between 2022 and 2023. All patients who did not opt out were included.

Results
AEs were identified in 10.9% of patients. Triggers related to compulsory treatment and medication significantly increased AE risk. No AEs occurred without associated triggers. Of the AEs identified, 63% were considered avoidable.

Conclusions
This study demonstrates the utility of GTT-P in detecting AEs in older psychiatric patients. Specific clinical triggers were significantly associated with AEs. Preventive strategies and improved care coordination are essential to reduce avoidable harm and enhance patient safety in psychiatric care.

Arne Okkenhaug, Eivind Aakhus, Guro F Giskeødegård, Bodil J Landstad, Ellen T Deilkås

Abstract

Post-diagnostic support is a critical yet underdeveloped aspect of dementia care, especially for autistic adults who present with distinct cognitive, sensory, and communication needs. Although interventions such as medication management, psychosocial support, environmental modifications, and carer training are known to improve outcomes, their relevance and accessibility for autistic individuals remain poorly understood. As part of the Second International Summit on Intellectual Disability and Dementia, an international working group examined the intersection of autism and dementia with a focus on post-diagnostic care. Drawing on interdisciplinary expertise, the group identified key barriers and opportunities in clinical practice, caregiving, and service delivery. Recommendations are organized across seven areas, including models of post-diagnostic support, caregiving contexts, pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions, environmental adaptations, and care planning. The discussion emphasizes the complex needs of autistic adults-many of whom have co-occurring intellectual disabilities, psychiatric conditions, or chronic health issues-and the need for individualized approaches that account for sensory sensitivities and communication differences. Existing dementia care frameworks often fail to address these complexities, resulting in significant service gaps. The report calls for urgent investment in research, workforce training, and policy reform to promote equitable, autism-informed post-diagnostic support and improve quality of life for this underserved population.Lay AbstractAutistic adults who develop dementia often experience challenges that are not well addressed by current dementia care systems. After a dementia diagnosis, people may need help with memory, communication, behavior changes, and daily living. For autistic adults, these supports must be adapted to their individual sensory sensitivities, communication styles, and social differences. This article reports on the work of an international group of researchers, clinicians, and advocates who met during the Second International Summit on Intellectual Disability and Dementia. The group examined how post-diagnostic support for autistic adults with dementia could be improved. They reviewed existing evidence, identified key barriers to care, and proposed strategies to strengthen services in areas such as medication use, environmental design, caregiver training, and personalized care planning. The report emphasizes that many autistic adults also have intellectual disabilities, mental health conditions, or long-term physical health issues, which can make care more complex. Current dementia care frameworks often overlook these overlapping needs, resulting in limited or unsuitable supports. The authors call for more research, workforce training, and autism-informed policy changes to ensure that post-diagnostic care is equitable, individualized, and responsive. Enhancing understanding and adapting support can help autistic adults with dementia maintain dignity, comfort, and quality of life.

Matthew P Janicki, Philip McCallion, Nancy Jokinen, Frode Kibsgaard Larsen, Dawna T Mughal, Kathryn P Service, Tiziano Gomiero, Christina N Marsack-Topolewski, Karen Watchman, Flavia H Santos, Seth M Keller, Shahin Shooshtari, Anupam Thakur, Vikram Palanisamy

Abstract:

Background: Depression in older adults is common in general practice, but the optimal approach for identification and treatment is not entirely clear.

Aim: To explore physicians’ experiences with a structured collaborative model involving joint consultations between patients, general practitioners (GPs), and geriatric psychiatrists for managing depression in adults aged 65 years and older.

Methods: Three focus group discussions were conducted with 13 physicians (10 GPs and 3 psychiatrists) who had participated in a structured collaboration model as part of a recent cluster randomized intervention study. Data were analyzed using Systematic Text Condensation.

Results: Five themes emerged: (1) diagnostic challenges; (2) perceived advantages; (3) feasibility; (4) concerns about overdiagnosis and overtreatment; and (5) suggested adjustments to the model. Somatic presentations often overshadowed depressive symptoms, particularly under GPs time constraints. Joint consultations strengthened the GP-patient relationship and enabled mutual learning. The presence of the GP was viewed as essential for patient engagement. The model addressed a treatment gap for GPs and was considered by psychiatrists to be highly cost-effective. All participants supported broader implementation in clinical practice.

Conclusion: The GPs’ enthusiasm for this collaborative approach indicates an unmet need in the treatment of older patients with depression. By strengthening both the doctor-patient relationship and interdisciplinary collaboration between GPs and psychiatrists in a cost-effective manner, the use of such joint consultations should be further investigated.

Lars Christian Kvalbein-Olsen, Eivind Aakhus, Ole Rikard Haavet & Erik L Werner

Abstract

The increasing presence of older immigrants in European societies has led to growing interest in how they and their families experience and manage care in ageing. This study aimed to explore the pattern of reflections and expectations of 2nd generation Turkish immigrants in Norway regarding family care. Qualitative design was employed in this study. The sample consisted of 18 2ndgeneration individuals of Turkish origin living in Norway. All participants lived in and around the same city in the middle part of Norway. Data was collected through individual face-to-face interviews conducted between November 2024 and January 2025. The transcripts were examined using reflexive thematic analysis. Four main themes were identified. 1) Cultural Background and Caregiving: Traditional Turkish Norms, 2) Intergenerational Care Expectations: Shifting Norms and Values, 3) Family Care Under the Same Roof: Wishes and Realities, and 4) Negotiating Family Care Responsibility. These findings demonstrate that cultural norms and caregiving, intergenerational care expectations, and family care practices are dynamically negotiated among 2nd generation Turkish immigrants. The findings indicate that while caregiving responsibilities are primarily framed in terms of love and moral obligation, economic, spatial, and emotional challenges significantly complicate this process.

Büşra Nur Temür, Nilgün Aksoy, Lillian Karlsen & Anne-Sofie Helvik

Article in press, 26. january 2026

Abstract:

Comprehensive mapping of key physical activity (PA) types, postures, and sleep among older adults is important for informing public health policies and interventions. This study aimed to describe the 24-h time distribution of key PA types, postures, and sleep in a population-based sample of community-dwelling older adults and explore whether age, sex, and educational level influenced this distribution. Participants 65 years and older from the fourth survey of the Trøndelag Health Study (HUNT4, 2017-19) with ≥ 1 day of complete accelerometer recording were included (n = 8,114). PA types (walking, running, cycling), postures (standing, sitting, lying (awake)), and sleep were derived from the accelerometer data using validated machine learning models. Survey-weighted regression models were applied to describe the 24-h time distribution of PA types, postures, and sleep by age, sex, and education. Participants spent 4.1 h standing (SD 85.3 min), 82.8 min (SD 40.3 min) walking, 0.2 min (SD 1.7 min) running, 4.6 min (SD 7.2 min) cycling, 9.2 h (SD 115.5 min) sitting, 2.1 h (SD 86.6 min) lying (awake), and 7.1 h (SD 50.4 min) sleeping per day. Time spent standing and walking decreased, while time spent sitting, lying (awake), and sleeping increased with higher age. Women spent more time standing and sleeping, and less time walking, sitting, and lying (awake) than men. Higher education was associated with more time standing and walking and less time sitting. This study provides novel insights into the distribution of 24-h movement behaviors among older adults and can serve as a benchmark for future research on key PA types, postures, sleep, and their interactions.

Karen Sverdrup, Astrid Ustad, Gro Gujord Tangen, Atle Kongsvold, Beatrix Vereijken, Bjørn Heine Strand, Geir Selbæk, Linda Ernstsen & Paul Jarle Mork