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The effects of ECT on cognitive functioning in the elderly: a review
Author(s) -
Tielkes Caroline E. M.,
Comijs Hannie C.,
Verwijk Esmée,
Stek Max L.
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
international journal of geriatric psychiatry
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.28
H-Index - 129
eISSN - 1099-1166
pISSN - 0885-6230
DOI - 10.1002/gps.1989
Subject(s) - cognition , psychology , gerontology , clinical psychology , psychiatry , medicine
Background Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) as a single course or in maintenance form (M‐ECT) is an effective treatment in depressed elderly. However, ECT may have adverse effects on cognition. Objective To review all studies from 1980–2006 on ECT and cognition in the elderly with a minimum age of 55 years or a mean age of 55 years, and with valid measurements of cognition before and after ECT. Results Nine out of the 15 eligible studies were focused exclusively on the elderly. Three studies reported verbal learning‐ and recall problems post ECT, while three studies found positive effects of ECT on memory, speed of processing and concentration. Global cognitive functioning in patients with cognitive impairment improved in all studies. At follow up, most studies reported improvement of cognitive functions. Learning verbal information and executive functioning were impaired in M‐ECT patients whereas global cognition remained stable after M‐ECT over a year. Conclusions To date research of ECT on cognitive functioning in the elderly is very limited. Small sample size, lack of controls, use of a single screening instrument and a short follow up period may explain the conflicting results. Given the clinical importance, more extensive research on cognition in elderly treated with ECT is urgently needed. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.