The Impact of Type 2 Diabetes in the Elderly on the Development and Incidence of Cognitive Impairment: A Comprehensive Review

Introduction: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) represents a significant risk factor for cognitive impairment and dementia in elderly populations, with important implications for clinical practice and public health. Elderly patients with T2DM demonstrate a 1.5 to 2.5- fold increased risk of developing dementia compared to non-diabetic counterparts, with prevalence rates ranging from 33% to 63% depending on assessment methods and populations studied. Purpose: This review examines the epidemiological evidence connecting T2DM with cognitive decline and dementia, with a particular emphasis on the development and occurrence in older adults. The objective is to synthesize current knowledge concerning the relationship between type 2 diabetes and cognitive function impairment in the elderly. Material and methods: To identify relevant publications on type 2 diabetes and cognitive impairment in the elderly, a thorough literature review of PubMed databases was carried out. Studies examining epidemiological data, biochemical pathways, risk factors, and clinical outcomes were included in the analysis.