Introduction: The MIND dietary pattern has been associated with the prevention of cognitive impairment in older. It has also been linked to muscle health. However, evidence regarding its effects in Brazilian older with cognitive impairment remains scarce. This study aimed to evaluate adherence to the MIND diet and its association with sarcopenia parameters in older people with cognitive impairment.

Method: Cross-sectional study involving older adults from the COG-AGING cohort with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), Alzheimer's disease dementia (ADD). A Food Frequency Questionnaire was used to calculate the MIND diet scores and tests were performed to assess sarcopenia and physical performance. Chi-square and ANOVA tests were conducted

Result: 104 participants (77.6 ± 7.1 years); 69.2% women; MCI: 60.6% and ADD: 39.4%. Beans, fruits, and vegetables were the most consumed neuroprotective foods; MIND diet adherence was predominantly low (49.0%).

Conclusion: Adherence to the MIND diet was low to moderate, particularly for berries, whole grains, and fish, reflecting Brazilian dietary habits. Although consumption of beans, fruits, and other vegetables was high. This suggests that the lack of association with sarcopenia and cognitive profiles reflects population characteristics rather than degree of decline