Psychiatry AdvisorFood Insecurity in Seniors Linked to Increased Risk for Dementia

Food Insecurity in Older Adults: A Hidden Catalyst for Cognitive Decline

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open has shed light on a less-explored aspect of cognitive health in older adults. The research reveals a significant association between food insecurity and increased risk of dementia, along with faster memory decline. This finding underscores the importance of addressing food security as a potential preventive measure against cognitive decline in older adults.

Key Points:

• The study was conducted by Haobing Qian, PhD, from the University of California in San Francisco, and his team.
• The research involved a cohort study of US residents aged 50 years and older.
• The sample included 7,012 participants with a mean age of 67.7 years.
• The study found that low food security and very low food security were associated with higher odds of dementia compared to food-secure older adults (odds ratios, 1.38 and 1.37, respectively).
• Lower memory levels and faster age-related memory decline were seen in association with low and very low food security.
• The authors emphasized the need to improve food security in older adults as a potential measure to protect individuals from cognitive decline and dementia.

According to the World Health Organization, around 55 million people worldwide have dementia, with nearly 60% living in low- and middle-income countries. Every year, there are nearly 10 million new cases.

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