The impact of hypertension on executive functions & speed of processing in geriatric subjects

Abstract

Introduction: Hypertension is a major contributor to cerebrovascular pathology causing dementia. Visual reaction time gives a better index of the cortical processing of Visual Stimulus. Trail Making Test provides information on visual search, scanning, speed of processing, mental flexibility, and executive functions. Our objective was to compare simple and choice reaction time (SRT & CRT) and trail making scores between hypertensives and normotensives geriatric male subjects. Interpretation and Conclusion:The results showed that the hypertensive elderly males have a lower cognitive performance in comparison to age matched normotensives. Hypertension delays the speed of processing of information in elderly hence they are at higher risk for injuries and its consequences.