Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a common chronic metabolic disorder among the elderly, with a significantly higher incidence of cognitive dysfunction compared to the general population. Objective: To systematically evaluate the risk factors for cognitive dysfunction and the efficacy of nursing interventions in elderly T2DM patients, providing a basis for early clinical identification and comprehensive care. Methods: Literature was retrieved from databases including China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang Data Knowledge Service Platform, and PubMed, encompassing Chinese and English publications on risk factors and nursing interventions for cognitive dysfunction in elderly T2DM patients from 2024 to 2026. Two researchers independently conducted literature screening and data extraction. Results: A total of 17 studies were included. Independent risk factors for cognitive dysfunction in elderly T2DM patients included elevated glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), prolonged diabetes duration, advanced age, high triglycerides, elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), hypertension, and increased serum inflammatory markers. Regarding nursing intervention models, specialized community-based interventions and hyperbaric oxygen therapy combined with Baduanjin exercise effectively improved cognitive function. Conclusion: Clinical practice should emphasize glycemic control in elderly T2DM patients, strengthen early screening for high-risk populations, and adopt diversified nursing intervention approaches to delay cognitive decline.
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