Living in Poor Neighborhoods: A Hidden Link to Dementia Risks

Ever wondered how your neighborhood could affect your brain health? A new study has uncovered a surprising link: living in disadvantaged areas may increase your risk for dementia and related conditions, even if you don't have any memory problems yet. Researchers found that people living in such neighborhoods had higher blood pressure and lower cognitive scores compared to those living in better-resourced areas. Moreover, for those already diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment, the impact was even worse, with higher blood sugar levels observed. The study highlights the urgent need to address social factors, like access to education and employment, to protect both heart health and brain function. The study involved over 500 adults aged 55 and above from Wake Forest University. They were screened for diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure, along with tests for memory, thinking skills, and other cognitive functions. The results showed that people without memory issues but living in disadvantaged neighborhoods had worse heart health and brain function. For those with mild cognitive impairment, the impact on their blood sugar levels was significant. “This study shows that where you live really matters, ” said one of the researchers. “The lack of resources and opportunities in disadvantaged neighborhoods can increase your risk for dementia. ” The findings emphasize the need for structural changes to tackle social determinants of health, thereby reducing the risks for both heart disease and cognitive decline.