Demographic and Health Status Differences Among People Aged 45 or Older With and Without Functional Difficulties Related to Increased Confusion or Memory Loss, 2011 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System

The optional module began with the question “During the past 12 months, have you experienced confusion or memory loss that is happening more often or is getting worse?” A total of 109,022 responded no to the question and were eliminated from this study. A total of 12,282 answered yes, and of those, 10,583 were aged 45 years or older. Of the respondents who answered the module questions regarding functional difficulties, they were asked whether increased confusion or memory loss either caused them to give up household activities or chores, or interfered with the ability to work, volunteer, or engage in social activities. 4,091 were classified as yes because the person responded with “always,” “usually,” or “sometimes” to at least 1 question; 6,321 were classified as no because they responded “rarely” or “never” to both functional difficulty questions.

Figure. Optional module on the impact of cognitive impairment, Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, in 21 states, January 1, 2011–December 31, 2011. Analysis conducted March–May 2013. The module is introduced with the following: “The next few questions ask about difficulties in thinking or remembering that can make a big difference in everyday activities. This does not refer to occasionally forgetting your keys or the name of someone you recently met, which is normal.”

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