Social Engagement and Cognition in Older Adults from Quilombola Communities in Brazil
Author Information
Author(s): Simon Sharon Sanz, Cappi Carolina, Junior João Cabral, Alves Gilberto, de Oliveira Bruno Carneiro Alves
Primary Institution: Columbia University
Hypothesis
The study investigates the association between cognition and socio-cultural engagement in Quilombola communities.
Conclusion
Higher social engagement is linked to better cognitive health in the Quilombola population.
Supporting Evidence
- Higher social engagement was associated with better cognition.
- The social activities that mostly drove the results were attending community meetings and religious services.
- Age and sex did not moderate the associations.
Takeaway
Being involved in social activities helps older people in Quilombola communities think better.
Methodology
This cross-sectional study involved 221 older adults from 11 Quilombola communities who completed health surveys and cognitive screenings.
Limitations
The study is limited by its cross-sectional design and potential survival bias.
Participant Demographics
Participants were older adults aged 60-104 years from Quilombola communities in Maranhão, Brazil.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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