Structural Stressors, Perceived Neighborhood Context, and Cognitive Function in Black Midlife and Older Adults
2024
Neighborhood Stressors and Cognitive Function in Black Older Adults
Sample size: 1663
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Thierry Amy, Tsuchiya Kazumi, Taylor Harry
Primary Institution: Xavier University of Louisiana
Hypothesis
How do lifetime exposure to structural stressors and current perceived neighborhood stressors affect cognitive function in Black adults over 50?
Conclusion
Exposure to multiple neighborhood-based stressors negatively impacts cognitive function in Black older adults.
Supporting Evidence
- Black adults reported exposure to structural stressors as 15.69% in policing, 14.25% in hiring, and 7.88% in housing.
- Greater total structural stressors were associated with greater cognitive function in unadjusted models.
- Worse ratings of social cohesion, safety, and cleanliness were associated with lower cognitive function.
Takeaway
This study found that living in a tough neighborhood can make it harder for older Black adults to think clearly.
Methodology
Linear regression models were used to test associations between structural and perceived neighborhood stressors and cognitive function.
Participant Demographics
Black adults over 50 years of age.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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