The Impact of Neighborhood Deprivation on Cognitive Health in New Zealand

Did you know that where you live can affect how your brain ages? Researchers in New Zealand found that people living in poorer areas showed a decline in cognitive function over two years. They studied a group of people aged around 63, half of whom were women, and a quarter were Māori. Using a test called Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination-Revised, they discovered that those living in more deprived neighborhoods performed worse. This wasn't just a one-time thing; these individuals also experienced faster cognitive decline compared to those from wealthier areas. The study used the New Zealand Deprivation Index (NZDep2006) to measure the socioeconomic status of neighborhoods. Even after considering other factors that could affect cognitive health, the link between neighborhood deprivation and cognitive decline remained strong. This study shows that to tackle differences in cognitive health, we need to look beyond individual factors and consider the broader community and socioeconomic environment.