Changes in modifiable dementia risk factors and subjective cognitive decline in mid and later life

Exposure to modifiable dementia risk factors (MDRFs) contributes substantially to dementia risk across the life course. Less is known about persistence and changes in these factors during mid- and later life and how they relate to early neurophysiological changes associated with dementia. This study examined rates and changes in MDRFs over two years and their associations with subjective cognitive decline (SCD) among older adults.

Cohort study.

Participants were 2370 adults aged 55-92 years (M = 68.54, SD = 7.15; 56.5% female) who completed the 2018 and 2020 waves of a longitudinal survey of ageing in New Zealand.

Self-reported hypertension, diabetes, hearing impairment, vision impairment, current smoking, hazardous alcohol use, physical inactivity, depression, and loneliness were classified into four categories across waves: stable absence, reduction, onset, and stable presence. SCD was assessed in 2020. Logistic regression models were used to examine associations between MDRF categories and SCD.

Survey-weighted responses indicated 8.6% of older adults experienced SCD. Diabetes, hearing impairment, current vision impairment, stable presence of physical inactivity, depression, and current loneliness were associated with increased odds of SCD.

Both the onset and reduction of psychosocial and sensory MDRFs in mid- and later life have measurable implications for subjective cognitive outcomes in a general population sample. Prevention and reduction of diabetes, sensory loss, physical inactivity, depression, and social isolation represent meaningful targets for supporting cognitive well-being among older adults.