Chicago, IL – A recent study published in JAMA Neurology reveals that leading a healthy lifestyle may have a protective effect on cognitive function in older adults, even in the presence of brain changes associated with dementia. The research, conducted using data from the Rush Memory and Aging Project, analyzed the impact of lifestyle choices on cognitive health in a cohort of 586 patients over a period spanning from 1997 to 2022.
Researchers focused on various lifestyle factors, such as diet, cognitive activity in late life, physical activity, smoking habits, and alcohol intake, to determine their association with cognitive function before the patients’ deaths. The results showed that individuals with higher scores in these lifestyle domains demonstrated better cognitive function, regardless of the presence of brain changes typically linked to dementia, such as amyloid plaques.
Overall, the study found that even a small improvement in lifestyle score was linked to enhanced cognition, suggesting the potential for a “cognitive reserve” that could help maintain cognitive sharpness despite underlying brain changes. The researchers proposed that lifestyle factors like diet and nutrition might play a role in protecting the brain from inflammation and oxidative stress.
Furthermore, the study highlighted the importance of incorporating lifestyle interventions alongside traditional Alzheimer’s disease medications for cognitive health. The researchers emphasized the need for more inclusive studies to explore dementia risk reduction in diverse populations, moving towards a more holistic approach to cognitive health.
These findings mark a significant step forward in understanding the intricate connections between lifestyle choices, brain health, and cognition. The implications of this research extend beyond the individual level, emphasizing the potential for lifestyle modifications to serve as a powerful tool in promoting cognitive well-being among older adults.