Types of Social Group Participation and Long-Term Cognitive Preservation in Older Ages

Participating in social groups predicts better cognitive preservation in older adults in the short term (<5 years). Long-term evidence with direct comparison between specific types of social groups is needed.

In the Taiwan Longitudinal Study of Aging (n = 4,009, mean age 64 years), 1,479 individuals reported participation in at least 1 of the 4 common types of social groups at baseline in 2003, including socializing, volunteering, religious, and networking groups. Cognitive function was measured by a modified Short Portable Mental Status Questionnaire at years 0 (baseline), 4, 8, and 12. Linear mixed-effects models were used to estimate relative cognitive preservation (in %) compared with individuals who did not participate in social groups at baseline or compared with individuals who participated in different social groups at baseline.

We found volunteering group participation was associated with most consistent cognitive preservation at year 4 (35%, 95% CI: +10% to +60%), 8 (+64%, +44% to +84%), and 12 (+57%, +24% to +89%) compared with the individuals who did not participate in social groups, and at year 12 compared with participants of other social groups (+65%, +16% to +114%).

Our findings support a long-term prediction of better cognitive preservation among volunteering group participants.