Do different factors affect anxiety in persons with dementia based on their cognitive status?

While various factors can trigger anxiety in persons with dementia, there is limited information on whether these factors vary based on cognitive status. Therefore, this study aimed to examine factors associated with anxiety in persons with dementia by their cognitive status. Using data from the Round 12 of the NHATS, 1040 older adults were categorized into those with possible or probable dementia. Sociodemographic characteristics, pain, sleep problems, self-rated health, dependency in activities of daily living, social isolation, perceived social cohesion, and depression were included. While sleep problems and depression were related to anxiety in those with both probable and possible dementia, pain was only related to anxiety in those with possible dementia, and perceived social cohesion was only related to anxiety in those with probable dementia. When persons with dementia present anxiety, healthcare professionals and caregivers should consider factors identified in this study to better understand and manage anxiety symptoms.