NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL UNDERSTANDING OF EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONS AND DEMENTIA IN ELDERLY WITH DIABETES MELLITUS TYPE 2 (Atena Editora)

Abstract

Introduction: Executive Functions (Fes) and Dementia in the elderly with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (DM2) are important public health issues in the world because they are directly linked to the quality of life, independence, ability to plan activities of daily living, social relationships and leisure of these individuals, although it needs more studies. Aim: to describe and analyze scientific articles on the relationship between EFs and Dementia in elderly people with DM2, point out evidence, and promote in-depth and useful information about the implications, mechanisms, and results of DM2 in aging and worsening of EF deficits and dementia. Methods: A bibliographic search was carried out in databases such as PubMed, Lilacs, Scielo, and Scopus, using keywords, “dementia”, “type 2 diabetes mellitus” “Executive Functions” and “Neuropsychology”. Articles in English and Portuguese were used, without determining publication period, containing data on the author(s) and year, type of study and sample, objective(s), and main results. Results: DM2 impairs EFs in elderly people and contributes to the progression of Dementia. This neuropsychological dysfunction affects neurocognitive, sensorimotor, behavioral, emotional, and social skills. Conclusion: There is a significant relationship between EF deficits and dementia in the elderly with DM2. More studies are needed to elucidate such relationships. Early interventions are suggested to delay the onset and control of DM2, to prevent some of its adverse effects on EFs and worsening of dementia. Neuropsychological diagnosis of EFs in the elderly with DM2 is indicated to propose neuropsychological rehabilitation and better quality of life in these patients.