Congestive Heart Failure: a Longitudinal Study of its Impact on Brain Function and Structure in Later Life (The Heart-Mind Study)
Funding Source: National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia (NHMRC)
Background
Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a common complication of most diseases of the heart. Its prevalence increases exponentially from 1% at the age of 60 years to over 50% amongst those aged 85 years or older. Congestive heart failure is associated with increased mortality and morbidity. The quality of life of patients with congestive heart failure is compromised by the direct effects of the illness, as well as associated medical co-morbidities. More recently, it has become apparent that a large proportion of people with congestive heart failure experience significant psychological distress, as well as cognitive impairment. The causes of such impairment and its likely progression over time are not clear.
Aims
The aim of the study is to determine the impact of congestive heart failure (CHF) on cognition, brain function, and structure over a two-year period.
Our researchers are looking at the following areas in older adults with congestive heart failure:
- a greater rate of cognitive decline
- greater loss of cerebral grey matter
- greater loss of cerebral white matter tissue
and will compare their results with people who have not had congestive heart failure.
Our researchers are current looking at the results collected and are currently determining their findings.
Investigators
