Lifestyle

Education, Occupation, Wealth Influence Dementia Risk: Study

Socioeconomic factors like education, occupation, and wealth play a significant role in determining the risk of dementia and cognitive impairment in later life, a new study by University College London (UCL) reveals.

The researchers assessed cognitive health progression by tracking transitions between states of cognitive health, mild impairment, and dementia. They discovered that people with higher education and more intellectually demanding jobs likely build a “brain reserve” that offers protection against cognitive decline, noted lead author Aswathikutty Gireesh from UCL’s Epidemiology and Health Care department.

Also Read: Low-Sugar Diet In Early Life Reduces Risk Of Diabetes And Hypertension, Study Shows

The study, published in Scientific Reports, found that those from socioeconomically advantaged backgrounds had a reduced risk of progressing from mild cognitive impairment to dementia. Moreover, such individuals had a greater chance of reversing impairment and returning to a healthy cognitive state, said senior author Dr. Dorina Cadar from UCL’s Department of Behavioural Science and Health.

Results indicated that post-secondary education was linked to a 43% lower risk of progressing to mild cognitive impairment, while those in the wealthiest third of the population had a 26% reduced risk of advancing from mild impairment to dementia. Wealth also increased the likelihood of recovery; wealthier individuals were 56% more likely to regain cognitive health, while those with higher education or skilled occupations were 81% more likely to improve.

The study also highlighted that individuals with better socioeconomic backgrounds often have greater access to healthcare, nutritious diets, exercise, and preventive care — all factors that support cognitive health, added Gireesh.

Shibra Arshad

Recent Posts

Amba Stavam Is A Supernatural Experience, Listen To It: PM Modi On Chaitra Navratri

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended wishes on Chaitra Navratri's fourth day, highlighting devotees'…

9 mins ago

Bharat Express CMD Upendrra Rai And Prominent Leaders Celebrate Eid Together At Shahnawaz Hussain’s Eid Milan

Former Union Minister and BJP National Spokesperson Shahnawaz Hussain organized an Eid Milan program at…

24 mins ago

IPL 2025: RCB vs GT Clash – Match Time, Venue, & Head-To-Head Stats

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will take on the Gujarat Titans (GT) in Match 14…

60 mins ago

The Waqf Amendment Bill 2025: A Beacon Of Justice, Equity, And Clarity For India’s Future

In a diverse and dynamic nation like India, managing Waqf properties requires a careful balance…

1 hour ago

Markets Open Higher As Heavyweights Lift Sentiment; Midcaps & Smallcaps Under Pressure

Indian stock markets started on a positive note, driven by gains in key stocks such…

2 hours ago

Justice Chandra Dhari Singh Bids Farewell To Delhi High Court As He Returns To Allahabad High Court

Justice Chandra Dhari Singh bid farewell to the Delhi High Court as the Center transferred…

3 hours ago