Money saves from dementia
A group of scientists from the University of Exeter (University of Exeter) and University College London (University College London) assessed the correlation of the frequency of dementia and the financial condition of the elderly. This is the first study of its kind, the purpose of which is to identify socio-economic factors that increase the incidence of dementia.
Dementia is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that leads to serious consequences for patients themselves, their families and entire states.
The researchers analyzed data from a large cohort prospective study ELSA (English Longitudinal Study of Aging). The participants were divided into two groups depending on their age: those born in 1902-1925 and in 1926-1943. Data analysis of more than 6000 people was carried out. The 20% of the most needy people were 50% more likely to develop dementia than the 20% of the least needy, regardless of education. The authors found that socio-economic inequality was more noticeable in the group of participants born in later years (after 1926).
The study confirms that the risk of dementia is lower among affluent elderly people compared to the poor. Obviously, this dependence is due to differences in lifestyle and medical care. Perhaps wealthy people have broader social and cultural opportunities and can remain active members of society for a long time. Scientists suggest that in the group of particularly needy participants, the risk of dementia will decrease against the background of increased education, normalization of nutrition and exercise.
The authors hope that their findings will help develop public strategies for the prevention of dementia aimed at eliminating socio-economic differences and reducing health inequalities. Ultimately, this may lead to a decrease in the incidence of dementia.
Article by D. Cadar et al. Evidence From a 12-Year Follow-up in the English Longitudinal Study of Aging is published in the journal JAMA Psychiatry.
Aminat Adzhieva, portal "Eternal Youth" http://vechnayamolodost.ru based on the materials of the University of Exeter: Most deprived far more likely to develop dementia.