Comparing MMSE And MoCA for Detecting Mild Cognitive Impairment in Elderly Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: Prevalence and Associated Factors

Abstract Objectives This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in elderly patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) using two cognitive assessment tools: the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Additionally, factors associated with MCI, including muscle health, body composition, inflammation, and protein intake, were investigated. Materials and Methods In this cross-sectional study, 108 older adults (≥ 60 years) with T2DM underwent cognitive assessment using MMSE and MoCA tests associated with Katz scale score, body composition analysis by bioelectrical impedance, muscle strength and physical performance tests, dietary assessment, and laboratory evaluation. Protein intake was estimated using urinary urea nitrogen (UUN). Results A total of 108 older adults with T2DM were included (68.7 ± 5.9 years; 55.6% women). The prevalence of MCI was 57.4% according to the MMSE and 72.2% according to the MoCA. Lower muscle mass, reduced handgrip strength, and lower UUN levels were observed with stronger associations observed for the MMSE. In multivariable Poisson regression, longer diabetes duration was independently associated with a higher prevalence of MCI (PR = 1.021; 95% CI: 1.002–1.040), whereas higher UUN levels were independently associated with a lower prevalence of MCI (PR = 0.621; 95% CI: 0.392–0.984). Conclusions Elderly individuals with T2DM have a high prevalence of MCI, according to MMSE and MoCA. We found significant associations between cognitive decline and muscle parameters, and higher UUN levels were independently associated with a lower prevalence of MCI. Longer diabetes duration was associated with increased MCI prevalence, while higher UUN showed a significant protective effect.