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Updated: Jun 11, 2025
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Assessment of Age-related Changes in Cognitive Functions Using EmoCogMeter, a Novel Tablet-computer Based Approach
Published on: February 14, 2014
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Neuroprotective Dietary Patterns and Longitudinal Changes in Cognitive Function in Older Adults.
Elayna R Seago1, Brenda M Davy2, Kevin P Davy2
1Human Development and Family Science, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia.
Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
|September 28, 2024
Summary
The Mediterranean and DASH diets are linked to better cognitive function and slower decline in aging adults. The DASH diet showed the strongest association with cognitive performance and change over time.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Nutritional Science
- Cognitive Neuroscience
Background:
- Conflicting research exists on the link between neuroprotective diets and cognitive function in aging.
- Some studies suggest a positive association, while others find no significant effect.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association of Mediterranean, DASH, and MIND diets with global cognition.
- Utilized 4 waves of data from the longitudinal Health and Retirement Study.
Main Methods:
- Secondary analysis of longitudinal data from the Health and Retirement Study (2014-2020).
- Included dietary intake, neuropsychological assessments, and demographic data.
- Excluded participants with dementia, Alzheimer's, or stroke.
Main Results:
- Mediterranean and DASH diets associated with better baseline cognition and slower cognitive decline over 6 years.
- MIND diet associated with baseline cognition but not cognitive decline.
- DASH diet adherence showed the strongest association with baseline cognition and cognitive change.
Conclusions:
- Mediterranean, DASH, and MIND diets are linked to improved cognitive performance.
- Mediterranean and DASH diets are associated with slower cognitive decline.
- DASH diet demonstrated the most significant impact on cognitive health in aging individuals.
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