LIFE COURSE “COGNABILITY”: INVESTIGATING NEIGHBORHOODS AND COGNITIVE HEALTH RISKS ACROSS THE LIFESPAN
2024

Investigating Neighborhoods and Cognitive Health Risks

Sample size: 56 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Finlay Jessica, Savard Grace, Alvarez-McNelis Desiree, Sagehorn Mallory, Esposito Michael

Primary Institution: University of Colorado Boulder, University of Minnesota

Hypothesis

How do neighborhood environments influence cognitive health risks across the lifespan?

Conclusion

Access to various neighborhood amenities can support cognitively healthy lifestyle behaviors at different life stages.

Supporting Evidence

  • Greater access to affordable amenities supports cognitive health in young adulthood.
  • Safe transportation and educational sites are important for mid-life cognitive health.
  • Civic organizations and outdoor recreation are beneficial for cognitive health in later life.

Takeaway

This study found that the places where people live can affect their brain health, and different age groups need different types of support from their neighborhoods.

Methodology

The study used seated and mobile interviews to gather data from participants about their neighborhood experiences.

Potential Biases

Potential biases may arise from self-reported data and the specific demographic of participants.

Limitations

The study may not capture all neighborhood factors affecting cognitive health due to its qualitative nature.

Participant Demographics

Participants were on average 42 years old, with a diverse representation in gender and ethnicity.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/geroni/igae098.1500

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