The use of the MoCA in cognitive impairment for older patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary disease: A preliminary study

Abstract

BackgroundCognitive Impairment (CI) represents an important extra-pulmonary feature of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), in which its prevalence remains under-recognised. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) is a validated screening test for detecting CI.ObjectivesThe use of the MoCA in clinically stable COPD in routine practice. Secondary aim: CI prevalence in COPD.DesignFeasibility study.MethodsQuantitative and qualitative data were collected in 30 COPD patients, aged ≥65 years, at the Outpatient Department in Modena (Italy).ResultsThe MoCA administration was on average 11 min. Patient feedback was positive. The COPD participants (mean age 75 years) viewed the test favourably and felt that understanding more about cognitive function would help improve their care. The median MoCA score was 23 with 10% of patients had moderate CI. The prevalence of CI was 84%.ConclusionThe MoCA is not time-consuming and should be incorporated in daily routine to identify CI in COPD, in which the prevalence of mild CI remains high. Results warrant further studies in larger populations to confirm feasibility in clinical practice.

Keywords: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease; Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA); cognitive Impairment.