Cognitive Function and Nutritional Status in Pre-Elderly Individuals with Human Immunodeficiency Virus

Abstract

Background: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection remains a global health issue, particularly in Africa and Asia. Cognitive impairment may early develop in individuals living with HIV and can therefore potentially impact nutritional status. This study aimed to assess the correlation between cognitive function and nutritional status in pre-elderly individuals with HIV.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from March 2023 to October 2024 among individuals living with HIV aged 45–59 years in Jakarta, Indonesia. Cognitive function was measured using the Indonesian version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA-Ina) and nutritional status was evaluated using body mass index (BMI). Data were analyzed using the Chi-square test with Jeffrey’s Amazing Statistics Program (JASP).

Results: Of the 157 respondents, most were male (75.2%) with a mean age of 49±4.17 years. The majority were unmarried (44.6%), employed (70.1%), had incomes below the Jakarta minimum wage (74.5%), and had completed senior high school education (56.0%). Mild cognitive impairment was found in 70.7% of participants, whereas normal nutritional status was the most common (45.9%). However, no significant relationship was found between cognitive function and nutritional status (p=0.161).  

Conclusion: Mild cognitive impairment is prevalent among pre-elderly individuals with HIV, most of whom have normal nutritional status. Although no significant relationship is observed between cognitive function and nutritional status, these findings highlight the importance of incorporating early cognitive screening into routine HIV care to support healthy aging and timely identification and management of cognitive decline.