The Role of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder as a Risk Factor for Dementia: A Meta-Analysis
Demi C D Havermans1,2, Chris M Hoeboer3, Theresia M Farrell4
1Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry and Neurology
|March 30, 2026
Summary
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) significantly increases dementia risk by 43-56%. Conditions like diabetes and hypertension may worsen this risk, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Public Health
Background:
- Dementia presents a growing global health challenge.
- Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a potential risk factor for dementia.
- The influence of moderating factors on this association requires clarification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the link between PTSD and dementia risk.
- To identify potential moderating factors influencing this relationship.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review and meta-analysis of 18 studies (30,203 abstracts screened).
- Searches conducted across PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, The Cochrane Library, and Scopus.
- Random-effects meta-analyses used for unadjusted and adjusted risk ratios, with subgroup and moderator analyses.
Main Results:
- PTSD is associated with a 43% increased dementia risk (unadjusted RR=1.43) and a 56% increased risk (adjusted HR=1.56).
- Diabetes and hypertension appeared to strengthen the PTSD-dementia association.
- Moderation effects of depression and alcohol use were not significant in post-hoc analyses.
Conclusions:
- PTSD is confirmed as a significant risk factor for dementia.
- Diabetes and hypertension may increase vulnerability to dementia in individuals with PTSD.
- Further research is essential to identify moderators and develop interventions for this population.
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