Physical health and lifestyle predictors for significant cognitive impairment in community-dwelling Chinese older adults in Hong Kong.

KEY MESSAGES: 1. The 6-year incidence of significant cognitive impairment (SCI) in community-living Chinese older people in Hong Kong is 8.6%; 2. Old age, female gender, and low educational level are risk factors for SCI; 3. Physical illnesses such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, heart disease, and atherosclerosis are risk factors for SCI; early detection and adequate treatment of these illnesses might help reduce the risk of SCI development in older people; 4. Depression is also a risk factor for SCI; 5. Endurance exercises, stretching exercises, and mental activities are protective against development of SCI.