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Published on: July 10, 2017
Social Engagement and Cognitive Function Among Older Mexican Heritage Latinos
Liza Talavera-Garza1, Michiyo Hirai1, Joseph D Hovey1
1Department of Psychological Science, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Edinburg, Texas, USA.
Objectives:
The current study examined the relationship between social engagement and cognitive function among older Mexican heritage Latinos in the U.S. Although social engagement has been identified as a factor that is protective against cognitive decline and dementia, its association with cognitive health in Mexican heritage Latinos is understudied.
Methods:
Data on cognitive health, social network characteristics, perceived social support, and social engagement were collected in a sample of older Mexican heritage Latinos in South Texas.
Results:
Social network characteristics, perceived social support, and social engagement were significantly correlated with cognitive health. A hierarchical multiple regression analysis was used to test the relative strength of these factors in predicting cognitive health, while controlling for relevant covariates. Social engagement was found to be a significant predictor of cognitive function, beyond the effects of perceived social support and social network characteristics.
Conclusions:
Findings highlight social engagement as a modifiable behavioral factor that may support cognitive health in aging Mexican heritage Latinos.
Clinical Implications:
The results suggest that screening for and enhancing social engagement may be a valuable clinical strategy for preserving cognitive function in older Latinos at risk of poor cognitive health outcomes.
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