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Environmental Factors Affecting Cognitive Function among Community-Dwelling Older Adults: A Longitudinal Study
Atsushi Motohiro1,2, Takafumi Abe3, Kenta Okuyama3,4
1Canvas Inc., 366 Satokata, Kisuki-cho, Unnnan-shi 699-1311, Shimane, Japan.
Summary
Living in elevated, hilly rural areas increases cognitive decline risk in older adults. Higher residential density may offer protection against cognitive decline.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Gerontology
- Rural Health Studies
- Cognitive Epidemiology
Background:
- Neighborhood environmental factors are linked to cognitive decline.
- Limited longitudinal research exists on rural older adults' cognitive health.
- Understanding environmental impacts is crucial for aging populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate neighborhood environmental factors' role in cognitive decline among rural older adults.
- To analyze the association between specific environmental features and cognitive changes.
- To provide insights for targeted interventions in rural aging populations.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal study of 485 rural older adults (≥60 years) in Unnan City, Japan (2014-2018).
- Cognitive function assessed using the Cognitive Assessment for Dementia, iPad version 2.
- Environmental factors (elevation, hilliness, density, community center proximity) analyzed via GIS; generalized estimating equations used.
Main Results:
- 56 participants (11.6%) showed cognitive decline.
- Higher elevation (adjusted OR 2.58) and hilliness (adjusted OR 1.93) were associated with increased cognitive decline risk.
- Second quartile of residential density showed a lower likelihood of cognitive decline (adjusted OR 0.36).
Conclusions:
- Elevated and hilly environments are significant predictors of cognitive decline in rural older adults.
- Residential density may have a protective effect against cognitive decline in this population.
- Environmental modifications in rural settings could support cognitive health in aging.
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