Hosts Patricia Wu, Jessica Reyes, and guest Janina Maschke discuss the effects of growing up in disadvantaged neighborhoods on cognitive abilities later in life, even without physical signs of brain disease.
Link Between Socioeconomics and Cognition
Recent studies reveal that lower income and living in disadvantaged areas are associated with weaker cognitive function in older adults, independent of brain diseases like Alzheimer’s.
Underlying Factors
Stress, limited access to healthy resources, and fewer opportunities are theorized to impact brain health, highlighting the importance of societal and environmental influences on cognitive development.
The Role of Education
Emphasizing the critical need for investment in education and community resources to protect cognitive function, the discussion turns to actionable steps individuals and communities can take to mitigate these effects and support cognitive health across the lifespan.
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