Neighborhood Environment and Cognitive Function Among Older Adults in Brazil
2024

Neighborhood Environment and Cognitive Function in Older Adults in Brazil

Sample size: 9412 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Álvarez Lourdes Romañach, Farina Mateo, Muñoz Elizabeth

Primary Institution: The University of Texas Austin

Hypothesis

More favorable neighborhood characteristics are associated with better cognitive functioning.

Conclusion

The study found that social cohesion and availability of healthy foods in neighborhoods are linked to better cognitive function among older adults in Brazil.

Supporting Evidence

  • Social cohesion in neighborhoods is linked to higher cognitive functioning.
  • Availability of fresh fruits and vegetables in neighborhoods is associated with better cognitive function.

Takeaway

Living in a friendly neighborhood with good food options can help older people think better.

Methodology

The study used data from the 2016 Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Aging and employed linear regression models to analyze the association between neighborhood characteristics and cognitive functioning.

Limitations

The study may not fully capture all factors influencing cognitive function in different contexts.

Participant Demographics

Community-residing adults in Brazil aged 50 years and older.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/geroni/igae098.3122

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