Adverse Childhood Experiences and Dementia Among Older US Adults: Assessment of Gender and Racial Disparities
2024

Adverse Childhood Experiences and Dementia Among Older US Adults

Sample size: 4235 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Monique Brown

Primary Institution: University of South Carolina

Hypothesis

This study aimed to determine the association between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and dementia, and to assess the related gender and racial disparities.

Conclusion

Individuals who reported adverse childhood experiences had significantly higher odds of ever having dementia compared to those without such experiences.

Supporting Evidence

  • Approximately 70% of participants reported adverse childhood experiences.
  • 3% of participants reported ever having dementia.
  • Men showed a statistically significant relationship between ACEs and dementia, while women did not.

Takeaway

If kids go through tough times, like neglect or abuse, they might have a higher chance of getting dementia when they grow up, especially boys.

Methodology

Data were obtained from the 2012-2020 Health and Retirement Study, and logistic regression models were used to analyze the associations.

Potential Biases

Potential biases may arise from self-reported data on ACEs and dementia diagnosis.

Limitations

The study may not account for all potential confounding factors influencing the relationship between ACEs and dementia.

Participant Demographics

Participants were aged 51 and older, with a diverse representation of gender and race.

Statistical Information

P-Value

14.5

Confidence Interval

1.56 – 133.9

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/geroni/igae098.0787

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