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Jawadekar N, Zimmerman S, Lu P, Riley AR, Glymour MM, Kezios K, Al Hazzouri AZ. A critique and examination of the polysocial risk score approach: predicting cognition in the Health and Retirement Study. Am J Epidemiol 2024; 193:1296-1300. [PMID: 38775285 PMCID: PMC11369218 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwae074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Polysocial risk scores were recently proposed as a strategy for improving the clinical relevance of knowledge about social determinants of health. Our objective in this study was to assess whether the polysocial risk score model improves prediction of cognition and all-cause mortality in middle-aged and older adults beyond simpler models including a smaller set of key social determinants of health. We used a sample of 13 773 individuals aged ≥50 years at baseline from the 2006-2018 waves of the Health and Retirement Study, a US population-based longitudinal cohort study. Four linear mixed models were compared: 2 simple models including a priori-selected covariates and 2 polysocial risk score models which used least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regularization to select covariates among 9 or 21 candidate social predictors. All models included age. Predictive accuracy was assessed via R2 and root mean-squared prediction error (RMSPE) using training/test split validation and cross-validation. For predicting cognition, the simple model including age, race, sex, and education had an R2 value of 0.31 and an RMSPE of 0.880. Compared with this, the most complex polysocial risk score selected 12 predictors (R2 = 0.35 and RMSPE = 0.858; 2.2% improvement). For all-cause mortality, the simple model including age, race, sex, and education had an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of 0.747, while the most complex polysocial risk score did not demonstrate improved performance (AUROC = 0.745). Models built on a smaller set of key social determinants performed comparably to models built on a more complex set of social "risk factors."
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Affiliation(s)
- Neal Jawadekar
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, United States
| | - Scott Zimmerman
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, United States
| | - Peiyi Lu
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, United States
| | - Alicia R Riley
- Department of Sociology, Division of Social Sciences, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, United States
| | - M Maria Glymour
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, United States
| | - Katrina Kezios
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, United States
| | - Adina Zeki Al Hazzouri
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, United States
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Tran NM, McKay T, Gonzales G, Dusetzina SB, Fry C. Aging in isolation: Sexual orientation differences in navigating cognitive decline. SSM Popul Health 2024; 27:101699. [PMID: 39139827 PMCID: PMC11320599 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2024.101699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Subjective cognitive decline is a self-reported measure of worsening memory and day-to-day decision making. Cognitive decline may impair an individual's ability to complete instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) such as preparing meals or taking medication, ultimately limiting one's ability to live independently. People with IADL impairments typically rely on informal care from spouses or children. Interpersonal and structural discrimination towards sexual minority (SM, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, and other queer identified) populations may contribute to disparities in cognitive decline and informal care outcomes. Objective Estimate differences in prevalence, severity, and receipt of social support for subjective cognitive decline stratified by sex and SM status. Methods Cross-sectional study design using a probability sample (n = 172,047) from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System 2015-2019. Prevalence estimates and multivariable Poisson regression models were used to compare outcomes by sex and sexual identity. Results Compared to heterosexual peers, SM men and women were more likely to experience cognitive decline (15% of SM men, 11% of heterosexual men, 17% of SM women, 11% of heterosexual women). In adjusted models, SM women were 22% more likely (95%CI:3%-44%, p < .05) to report IADL impairments due to cognitive decline but were 17% less likely (95%CI:1%-31%, p < .05) to receive any social support with IADL impairments compared to heterosexual women. In adjusted models, SM men were 25% more likely (95%CI: 0%-56%, p < .05) to report IADL impairments due to cognitive decline but reported no significant difference in receiving social support with IADL impairments compared to heterosexual men. Discussion We identified significant unmet need for social supports for IADL impairments, with highest unmet need among SM women. Comprehensive strategies such as LGBTQ + affirming assisted living and home and community-based services are needed to ensure equity in receipt of long-term supports and services for SM populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathaniel M. Tran
- Department of Health Policy, Vanderbilt University, United States
- LGBTQ+ Policy Lab, Vanderbilt University, United States
- Division of Health Policy & Administration, University of Illinois Chicago, United States
| | - Tara McKay
- Department of Health Policy, Vanderbilt University, United States
- LGBTQ+ Policy Lab, Vanderbilt University, United States
- Department of Medicine, Health, and Society, Vanderbilt University, United States
| | - Gilbert Gonzales
- Department of Health Policy, Vanderbilt University, United States
- LGBTQ+ Policy Lab, Vanderbilt University, United States
- Department of Medicine, Health, and Society, Vanderbilt University, United States
| | | | - Carrie Fry
- Department of Health Policy, Vanderbilt University, United States
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Livingston G, Huntley J, Liu KY, Costafreda SG, Selbæk G, Alladi S, Ames D, Banerjee S, Burns A, Brayne C, Fox NC, Ferri CP, Gitlin LN, Howard R, Kales HC, Kivimäki M, Larson EB, Nakasujja N, Rockwood K, Samus Q, Shirai K, Singh-Manoux A, Schneider LS, Walsh S, Yao Y, Sommerlad A, Mukadam N. Dementia prevention, intervention, and care: 2024 report of the Lancet standing Commission. Lancet 2024; 404:572-628. [PMID: 39096926 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(24)01296-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Gill Livingston
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK; Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
| | - Jonathan Huntley
- Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Kathy Y Liu
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sergi G Costafreda
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK; Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Geir Selbæk
- Norwegian National Advisory Unit on Ageing and Health, Vestfold Hospital Trust, Tønsberg, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Geriatric Department, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Suvarna Alladi
- National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
| | - David Ames
- National Ageing Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; University of Melbourne Academic Unit for Psychiatry of Old Age, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Sube Banerjee
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | | | - Carol Brayne
- Cambridge Public Health, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Nick C Fox
- The Dementia Research Centre, Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, University College London, London, UK
| | - Cleusa P Ferri
- Health Technology Assessment Unit, Hospital Alemão Oswaldo Cruz, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Psychiatry, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Laura N Gitlin
- College of Nursing and Health Professions, AgeWell Collaboratory, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Robert Howard
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK; Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Helen C Kales
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, UC Davis School of Medicine, University of California, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Mika Kivimäki
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK; Department of Public Health, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Eric B Larson
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Noeline Nakasujja
- Department of Psychiatry College of Health Sciences, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala City, Uganda
| | - Kenneth Rockwood
- Centre for the Health Care of Elderly People, Geriatric Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Quincy Samus
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins Bayview, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kokoro Shirai
- Graduate School of Social and Environmental Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Archana Singh-Manoux
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK; Université Paris Cité, Inserm U1153, Paris, France
| | - Lon S Schneider
- Department of Psychiatry and the Behavioural Sciences and Department of Neurology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sebastian Walsh
- Cambridge Public Health, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Yao Yao
- China Center for Health Development Studies, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China; Key Laboratory of Epidemiology of Major Diseases (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Andrew Sommerlad
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK; Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Naaheed Mukadam
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK; Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Mian M, Tahiri J, Eldin R, Altabaa M, Sehar U, Reddy PH. Overlooked cases of mild cognitive impairment: Implications to early Alzheimer's disease. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 98:102335. [PMID: 38744405 PMCID: PMC11180381 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) marks the initial phase of memory decline or other cognitive functions like language or spatial perception, while individuals typically retain the capacity to carry out everyday tasks independently. Our comprehensive article investigates the intricate landscape of cognitive disorders, focusing on MCI and Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Alzheimer's disease-related dementias (ADRD). The study aims to understand the signs of MCI, early Alzheimer's disease, and healthy brain aging while assessing factors influencing disease progression, pathology development and susceptibility. A systematic literature review of over 100 articles was conducted, emphasizing MCI, AD and ADRD within the elderly populations. The synthesis of results reveals significant findings regarding ethnicity, gender, lifestyle, comorbidities, and diagnostic tools. Ethnicity was found to influence MCI prevalence, with disparities observed across diverse populations. Gender differences were evident in cognitive performance and decline, highlighting the need for personalized management strategies. Lifestyle factors and comorbidities were identified as crucial influencers of cognitive health. Regarding diagnostic tools, the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) emerged as superior to the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) in early MCI detection. Overall, our article provides insights into the multifaceted nature of cognitive disorders, emphasizing the importance of tailored interventions and comprehensive assessment strategies for effective cognitive health management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maamoon Mian
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - Jihane Tahiri
- School of Biology, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - Ryan Eldin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University College of Dentistry, Dallas, TX 75246, USA
| | - Mohamad Altabaa
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - Ujala Sehar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - P Hemachandra Reddy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Nutritional Sciences Department, College Human Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409; Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Department of Neurology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Department of Public Health, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
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Manca R, Moreno JA, Nicoletti A, Henderson NJ, Flatt JD. Neurocognitive health in LGBTQIA+ older adults: current state of research and recommendations. Front Hum Neurosci 2024; 18:1394374. [PMID: 38887545 PMCID: PMC11180872 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2024.1394374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Manca
- Department of Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge, United Kingdom
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - John Alexander Moreno
- Department of Psychology, Université of Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et de Services Sociaux du Centre-Sud-de-I'Île-de-Montréal (CCSMTL), Montréal, QC, Canada
- Notre-Dame Hospital, Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux du Centre-Sud-de-I'Île-de-Montréal (CCSMTL), Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Alessandra Nicoletti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Neil J. Henderson
- Department of Social Work, University of Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Jason D. Flatt
- Department of Social and Behavioral Health, School of Public Health, University of Nevada Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV, United States
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Bayram E, Banks SJ. Risk of impairment in cognitive instrumental activities of daily living for sexual and gender minority adults with reported Parkinson's disease. Clin Neuropsychol 2024:1-22. [PMID: 38741341 DOI: 10.1080/13854046.2024.2350096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Objective: To investigate the risk of impairment in cognitive instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) for people with Parkinson's (PwP) identifying as sexual and/or gender minorities (SGM). Method: Data were obtained from Fox Insight, an online, longitudinal study with self/informant-report questionnaires from PwP and people without Parkinson's. Groups consisted of PwP without cognitive IADL impairment at baseline, identifying as (1) SGM with female sex assigned at birth (SGM-F, n = 75); (2) cisgender, heterosexual with female sex assigned at birth (CH-F, n = 2046); (3) SGM with male sex assigned at birth (SGM-M, n = 84); (4) cisgender, heterosexual with male sex assigned at birth (CH-M, n = 2056). Impairment in cognitive IADL was based on Penn Parkinson's Daily Activities Questionnaire-15 (PDAQ-15). Group differences for PDAQ-15 and impairment likelihood during follow-up were assessed with unadjusted models and adjusting for variables that differed between the groups. Results: SGM-F were the youngest at Parkinson's diagnosis; SGM-M had the lowest PDAQ-15 at baseline (p ≤ .014 for all). Scores declined more for males than females in unadjusted and adjusted models (p < .001 for both). In unadjusted models, SGM-M had a higher impairment risk than PwP identifying as cisgender and heterosexual (p ≤ .018). In adjusted models, females had a lower impairment risk than males (p < .001). Age, education, and discrimination level were significant moderators (p < .001 for all). Conclusions: SGM-M can be at a higher risk for impairment in cognitive IADL, associated with social determinants. Female sex assigned at birth may be associated with a lower level of impairment risk, although this advantage can disappear with social determinants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ece Bayram
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Sarah J Banks
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
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2024 Alzheimer's disease facts and figures. Alzheimers Dement 2024; 20:3708-3821. [PMID: 38689398 PMCID: PMC11095490 DOI: 10.1002/alz.13809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
This article describes the public health impact of Alzheimer's disease (AD), including prevalence and incidence, mortality and morbidity, use and costs of care and the ramifications of AD for family caregivers, the dementia workforce and society. The Special Report discusses the larger health care system for older adults with cognitive issues, focusing on the role of caregivers and non-physician health care professionals. An estimated 6.9 million Americans age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer's dementia today. This number could grow to 13.8 million by 2060, barring the development of medical breakthroughs to prevent or cure AD. Official AD death certificates recorded 119,399 deaths from AD in 2021. In 2020 and 2021, when COVID-19 entered the ranks of the top ten causes of death, Alzheimer's was the seventh-leading cause of death in the United States. Official counts for more recent years are still being compiled. Alzheimer's remains the fifth-leading cause of death among Americans age 65 and older. Between 2000 and 2021, deaths from stroke, heart disease and HIV decreased, whereas reported deaths from AD increased more than 140%. More than 11 million family members and other unpaid caregivers provided an estimated 18.4 billion hours of care to people with Alzheimer's or other dementias in 2023. These figures reflect a decline in the number of caregivers compared with a decade earlier, as well as an increase in the amount of care provided by each remaining caregiver. Unpaid dementia caregiving was valued at $346.6 billion in 2023. Its costs, however, extend to unpaid caregivers' increased risk for emotional distress and negative mental and physical health outcomes. Members of the paid health care and broader community-based workforce are involved in diagnosing, treating and caring for people with dementia. However, the United States faces growing shortages across different segments of the dementia care workforce due to a combination of factors, including the absolute increase in the number of people living with dementia. Therefore, targeted programs and care delivery models will be needed to attract, better train and effectively deploy health care and community-based workers to provide dementia care. Average per-person Medicare payments for services to beneficiaries age 65 and older with AD or other dementias are almost three times as great as payments for beneficiaries without these conditions, and Medicaid payments are more than 22 times as great. Total payments in 2024 for health care, long-term care and hospice services for people age 65 and older with dementia are estimated to be $360 billion. The Special Report investigates how caregivers of older adults with cognitive issues interact with the health care system and examines the role non-physician health care professionals play in facilitating clinical care and access to community-based services and supports. It includes surveys of caregivers and health care workers, focusing on their experiences, challenges, awareness and perceptions of dementia care navigation.
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Shippee T, Simon Rosser BR, Wright MM, Aumock C, Moone R, Talley KMC, Duran P, Henning-Smith C, Cahill S, Flatt JD, Slaughter-Acey J, Greenwald S, McCarthy T, Ross MW. Scoping Literature Review: Experiences of Sexual and Gender Minority Older Adults, With Diagnoses of Dementia, Who Use Residential Long-Term Services and Supports. J Appl Gerontol 2024; 43:562-576. [PMID: 37975683 PMCID: PMC10981565 DOI: 10.1177/07334648231213532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The number of sexual and gender minority (SGM) older adults utilizing residential long-term supports and services (LTSS) will increase in the forthcoming decades. Paradoxically, while requiring more LTSS services than their non-SGM counterparts, SGM older adults are less likely to access these services, partly due to fears of discrimination. Furthermore, SGM older adults living with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (AD/ADRD) present unique challenges and opportunities for LTSS facilities. This article provides a scoping review on the intersection between experiences of SGM older adults with AD/ADRD who use residential LTSS. This review identified three themes: (1) the experiences of discrimination among SGM residents in LTSS facilities, (2) the need for comprehensive staff training in residential LTSS to ensure proper care of SGM populations, and (3) the crucial role of inclusive facility policies. As the number of SGM older adults is expected to increase, further research is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Phil Duran
- Aging and Gender Care Access, Saint Paul, MN, USA
| | | | - Sean Cahill
- Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
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Romanelli RJ, Rosenblatt AS, Marcum ZA, Flatt JD. Cognitive Impairment in Sexual and Gender Minority Groups: A Scoping Review of the Literature. LGBT Health 2024; 11:178-192. [PMID: 37824757 DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2023.0095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this review was to synthesize evidence on differences in cognitive impairment by sexual orientation/gender identity (SOGI) status. Methods: A scoping review of the literature was conducted. Five databases (PubMed/Medline, Cumulated Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Web of Science, PsycInfo, and Embase) were searched for primary articles comparing incidence or prevalence of cognitive impairment among sexual and gender minority (SGM) groups versus non-SGM groups. Two reviewers independently screened articles and conducted risk-of-bias assessment on eligible articles. Results: Fifteen primary studies were eligible. Most studies (n = 13) were cross-sectional, with moderate to critical risk of bias. Among eight studies examining self-reported cognitive impairment, seven reported a higher prevalence among some SGM groups versus non-SGM groups. Among seven studies using objective measures of cognitive impairment, three examined prevalence of clinician-documented diagnosis of dementia, of which two reported a higher prevalence specifically among transgender versus cisgender individuals. Among the other four studies examining objective measures, two reported poorer cognitive performance or memory, one reported better performance, and another reported no difference. Comparisons across studies were challenging due to inconsistencies in how SOGI and cognitive impairment were operationalized, and the factors used for statistical adjustment; some studies adjusted for putative intermediary factors that potentially explain differences in cognitive impairment. Conclusions: Whereas most published studies identified a positive relationship between SOGI status and self-reported cognitive impairment, evidence is mixed with regard to objective cognitive performance. Well-designed longitudinal, observational studies are needed, using objective measures of cognitive function, with careful consideration of confounding versus intermediary risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrew S Rosenblatt
- Jona Goldrich Center for Alzheimer's & Memory Disorders, Department of Neurology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Zachary A Marcum
- University of Washington School of Pharmacy, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Jason D Flatt
- University of Nevada Las Vegas School of Public Health, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
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Torres JM, Flores Romero KR, Kotwal AA, Chen R, Hill‐Jarrett T, Mitchell UA, Glymour MM. Spouses of individuals living with mild cognitive impairment or dementia in the United States: A descriptive, population-based study. Alzheimers Dement 2024; 20:1562-1572. [PMID: 38041823 PMCID: PMC10984471 DOI: 10.1002/alz.13555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about the population of individuals who live with a spouse with cognitive impairment (CI) or dementia. METHODS Using the US Health and Retirement Study, 2000 to 2018, we estimated the population of adults ≥ 50 years old co-residing with a spouse with probable CI/dementia. We described their socio-demographic and health characteristics and quantified socio-demographic inequities. RESULTS Among community-dwelling adults ≥ 50 years old, 6% of women and 4% of men co-resided with a spouse with probable CI/dementia. Among those who were married/partnered, the prevalence of spousal dementia was greater for Black and Hispanic adults compared to their White counterparts, and for those with lower versus higher educational attainment. Among spouses, activities of daily living disability, depression, and past 2-year hospitalization was common. DISCUSSION Millions of older adults, disproportionately Black and Hispanic people and people with lower levels of educational attainment, live with a spouse with CI while also facing their own major health challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline M. Torres
- Department of Epidemiology & BiostatisticsUniversity of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Karla Renata Flores Romero
- Department of Epidemiology & BiostatisticsUniversity of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Ashwin A. Kotwal
- Division of GeriatricsDepartment of MedicineUniversity of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
- Geriatrics, Palliative, and Extended Care Service LineSan Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical CenterSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Ruijia Chen
- Department of EpidemiologySchool of Public HealthBoston UniversityBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Tanisha Hill‐Jarrett
- Memory and Aging CenterDepartment of NeurologyUniversity of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Uchechi A. Mitchell
- Division of Community Health SciencesSchool of Public HealthUniversity of IllinoisChicagoIllinoisUSA
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Liu H, Chopik WJ, Shrout MR, Wang J. A national longitudinal dyadic analysis of spousal education and cognitive decline in the United States. Soc Sci Med 2024; 343:116603. [PMID: 38281387 PMCID: PMC10923139 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2024.116603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Education plays a significant role in shaping cognitive functioning throughout an individual's life. However, existing research has not adequately explored how the educational attainment of the spouse can impact cognitive functioning over time. This study presents one of the first longitudinal analyses of how spousal education is linked to cognitive trajectories of each member within couples during their later life in the United States. Guided by the linked lives perspective, we analyze data from 8370 couples in the Health and Retirement Study spanning from 2000 to 2018. Results from the Actor-Partner Interdependence Model (APIM) integrated with latent growth curve models reveal that cognitive trajectories exhibit a correlation between spouses over time. Moreover, our analysis uncovers gender-specific effects of spousal education on cognition, shedding light on the underlying mechanisms driving this connection. Notably, the lower educational attainment of husbands is associated with a faster cognitive decline in both themselves and their wives. This association is partially explained by economic resources, but not by health and social behaviors. The lower educational attainment of wives is linked to their own faster cognitive decline as well as lower initial cognitive levels of their husbands, in part via economic resources. However, wives' educational attainment is largely unrelated to their husbands' cognitive decline. Intriguingly, wives' education has a more pronounced impact on the health and social behaviors of their husbands than vice versa, although these health and social behaviors do not appear to influence husbands' cognitive decline. In conclusion, these results underscore the importance of considering spousal education in comprehending the complexities of cognitive decline within dyadic relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Liu
- Department of Sociology, Purdue University, USA; Center on Aging and the Life Course, Purdue University, USA.
| | | | - M Rosie Shrout
- Center on Aging and the Life Course, Purdue University, USA; Department of Human Development and Family Science, Purdue University, USA
| | - Juwen Wang
- Department of Sociology, Purdue University, USA; Center on Aging and the Life Course, Purdue University, USA
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Manca R, Venneri A. Minority Stress and Psychosocial Influences on Cognitive Performance in Sexual Minority Older Adults. Innov Aging 2023; 7:igad110. [PMID: 37868765 PMCID: PMC10590172 DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igad110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives Sexual minorities experience health inequalities, but little is known about differences in neurocognitive health between heterosexual and sexual minority older adults and potential risk factors. To investigate minority stress, depression, and marital status as risk factors for worse cognitive performance in sexual minority older adults. Research Design and Methods A total of 336 sexual minorities and 5,561 heterosexual participants aged 50+, noninstitutionalized, and free from neurodegenerative diseases from Wave 6 of the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing were included. Cognitive performance (i.e., temporal orientation, episodic memory, and fluid intelligence) of sexual minority and heterosexual older adults was compared using general linear models including age, sex, and education as covariates. The differential impact of minority stress, depressive symptoms, and marital status on cognition in the 2 groups were also tested. Analyses were weighted for sampling probability and differential nonresponse. Results Sexual minority participants were more likely to report minority stress and to be single but had better episodic memory than heterosexual participants. Depression and being single were associated with worse cognitive performance in both groups. However, minority stress was negatively associated (B = -2.116, p = .016) with fluid intelligence in the sexual minority group only. Discussion and Implications Better memory in sexual minority participants and a negative effect of risk factors on cognition are in line with previous studies. However, this study provides the first evidence of a potential negative impact of minority stress on cognitive performance in sexual minorities. Further investigations are needed to assess minority stress more in detail and clarify its potential mechanisms of action on cognition in sexual minorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Manca
- Department of Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge, UK
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Annalena Venneri
- Department of Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge, UK
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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13
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Barbee H, McKay T. Do supportive work environments matter for minority aging? Work stress and subjective cognitive impairment among middle-age and older lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer adults. Acta Psychol (Amst) 2023; 237:103949. [PMID: 37267881 PMCID: PMC11089649 DOI: 10.1016/j.actpsy.2023.103949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Research has documented how people's experiences at work affect their cognitive health outcomes, but how these processes unfold for minority groups, particularly lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) populations, is unclear. This study builds on the nascent literature by employing generalized structural equation models to test how experiencing major problems at work and working with LGBTQ+ supportive coworkers affect subjective cognitive impairment among middle-age and older LGBTQ+ adults. We also test for mediated and indirect effects of support and problems at work operating via vascular disease, sleep problems, and depression symptoms. Experiencing major problems at work is associated with a higher likelihood of reporting cognitive symptoms consistent with mild cognitive impairment, but this relationship is mediated by depression symptoms and sleep problems. Having LGBTQ+ supportive coworkers does not have direct effects on mild cognitive impairment, but does operate indirectly by decreasing problems at work and, in turn, decreases the likelihood of reporting cognitive symptoms consistent with mild cognitive impairment. Overall, we find that workplace stressors contribute to cognitive health directly and through mediated and indirect pathways and that supportive contexts reduce exposure to problems at work. We conclude with suggested possibilities to reorganize workplaces to improve long-term cognitive health outcomes for older adults, especially those who are LGBTQ+-identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harry Barbee
- Johns Hopkins University, United States of America.
| | - Tara McKay
- Vanderbilt University, United States of America.
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14
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Rosser BRS, Shippee T, Wright MM, Aumock C, Moone R, Talley KM, Duran P, Henning-Smith C, Cahill S, Flatt JD, Slaughter-Acey J, Greenwald S, McCarthy T, Ross MW. "Going Back in the Closet": Addressing Discrimination Against Sexual and Gender Minority Residents in Long-Term Services and Supports by Providing Culturally Responsive Care. J Aging Soc Policy 2023:1-13. [PMID: 37348486 PMCID: PMC10739643 DOI: 10.1080/08959420.2023.2226300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
Sexual and gender minority (SGM) older adults face discrimination in long-term services and supports (LTSS). Yet, SGM older adults use LTSS disproportionately higher relative to their non-SGM counterparts. The discrimination is compounded by existing disparities, resulting in worse health outcomes and well-being for SGM older adults. Guided by socioecological model, we posit that training LTSS staff in SGM responsive care and implementing SGM anti-discrimination policies will be needed to improve care. Considering accessibility and turnover challenges, training should be online, interactive, and easily accessible. Studies that assess interventions for SGM responsive care are needed to guide policy and practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- B. R. Simon Rosser
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Tetyana Shippee
- Division of Health Policy and Management, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Morgan M. Wright
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Cailynn Aumock
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Rajean Moone
- Long Term Care Administration Program, College of Continuing and Professional Studies, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Kristine M.C. Talley
- Adult and Gerontological Health Cooperative, University of Minnesota School of Nursing, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | | | - Carrie Henning-Smith
- Division of Health Policy and Management, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Sean Cahill
- Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jason D. Flatt
- Department of Social and Behavior Health, School of Public Health, University of Nevada Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV
| | - Jaime Slaughter-Acey
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Samuel Greenwald
- Division of Health Policy and Management, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Teresa McCarthy
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Michael W. Ross
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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15
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Franco-Rocha OY, Wheldon CW, Trainum K, Kesler SR, Henneghan AM. Clinical, psychosocial, and sociodemographic factors of sexual and gender minority groups with cancer: A systematic review. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2023; 64:102343. [PMID: 37290162 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2023.102343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Psychosocial health varies depending on demographic and clinical factors and the social context in which individuals grow and live. Sexual and gender minority (SGM) populations experience health disparities due to systemic factors that privilege cisgender and heterosexual identities. We reviewed the literature on the psychosocial, sociodemographic, and clinical factors in SGM groups with cancer and described the associations among these factors. METHODS We conducted a systematic review according to Fink's methodology and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines in the PubMed, PsycInfo, Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and LGBTQ+ Life databases. Quantitative articles published in English or Spanish were included. Grey literature and studies with participants in hospice care were excluded. The quality of the publications was assessed with the Joanna Briggs Institute criticalappraisal tools. RESULTS The review included 25 publications. In SGM groups, systemic cancer treatment was associated with worse psychosocial outcomes; and older age, employment, and higher income were associated with better psychosocial outcomes. CONCLUSIONS SGM groups with cancer are different from their heterosexual cisgender peers in sociodemographic, psychosocial, and clinical factors. Clinical and sociodemographic factors are associated with psychosocial outcomes among SGM individuals with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oscar Y Franco-Rocha
- School of Nursing, University of Texas at Austin, 1710 Red River St, Austin, TX, 78712, USA.
| | - Christopher W Wheldon
- Department of Social & Behavioral Sciences, College of Public Health, Temple University, 1301 Cecil B, Moore Ave., Ritter Hall Annex 9th Floor, Room 955, Philadelphia, PA, 19122, USA.
| | - Katie Trainum
- School of Nursing, University of Texas at Austin, 1710 Red River St, Austin, TX, 78712, USA.
| | - Shelli R Kesler
- School of Nursing, Department of Diagnostic Medicine, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, 1710 Red River St, Austin, TX, 78712, USA.
| | - Ashley M Henneghan
- School of Nursing, Department of Oncology, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, 1710 Red River St, Austin, TX, 78712, USA.
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Abstract
This article describes the public health impact of Alzheimer's disease, including prevalence and incidence, mortality and morbidity, use and costs of care, and the overall impact on family caregivers, the dementia workforce and society. The Special Report examines the patient journey from awareness of cognitive changes to potential treatment with drugs that change the underlying biology of Alzheimer's. An estimated 6.7 million Americans age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer's dementia today. This number could grow to 13.8 million by 2060 barring the development of medical breakthroughs to prevent, slow or cure AD. Official death certificates recorded 121,499 deaths from AD in 2019, and Alzheimer's disease was officially listed as the sixth-leading cause of death in the United States. In 2020 and 2021, when COVID-19 entered the ranks of the top ten causes of death, Alzheimer's was the seventh-leading cause of death. Alzheimer's remains the fifth-leading cause of death among Americans age 65 and older. Between 2000 and 2019, deaths from stroke, heart disease and HIV decreased, whereas reported deaths from AD increased more than 145%. This trajectory of deaths from AD was likely exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021. More than 11 million family members and other unpaid caregivers provided an estimated 18 billion hours of care to people with Alzheimer's or other dementias in 2022. These figures reflect a decline in the number of caregivers compared with a decade earlier, as well as an increase in the amount of care provided by each remaining caregiver. Unpaid dementia caregiving was valued at $339.5 billion in 2022. Its costs, however, extend to family caregivers' increased risk for emotional distress and negative mental and physical health outcomes - costs that have been aggravated by COVID-19. Members of the paid health care workforce are involved in diagnosing, treating and caring for people with dementia. In recent years, however, a shortage of such workers has developed in the United States. This shortage - brought about, in part, by COVID-19 - has occurred at a time when more members of the dementia care workforce are needed. Therefore, programs will be needed to attract workers and better train health care teams. Average per-person Medicare payments for services to beneficiaries age 65 and older with AD or other dementias are almost three times as great as payments for beneficiaries without these conditions, and Medicaid payments are more than 22 times as great. Total payments in 2023 for health care, long-term care and hospice services for people age 65 and older with dementia are estimated to be $345 billion. The Special Report examines whether there will be sufficient numbers of physician specialists to provide Alzheimer's care and treatment now that two drugs are available that change the underlying biology of Alzheimer's disease.
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Palarino JV, Boardman JD, Rogers RG. Cognition and Diabetes: Examining Sex Differences Using a Longitudinal Sample of Older Adults. Res Aging 2023; 45:161-172. [PMID: 35418264 DOI: 10.1177/01640275221084282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Objectives: This study aims to investigate sex-based differences in the diabetes status and cognition relationship using a representative sample of older Americans. Methods: Using a sample of 19,190 females and 15,580 males from the Health and Retirement Study, we conduct mixed-effects linear regression analyses to examine sex differences in the association between diabetes and cognition over a 20-year follow-up period among older adults in the United States. Main Findings: Females experience slightly steeper declines in cognition that are further exacerbated by diabetes. At age 65, females without diabetes have significantly higher cognition than males; this gap is eliminated by age 85. Among diabetics, there is no initial sex disparity, but females' cognition becomes significantly lower than males' over the following 20 years. Principal Conclusions: Relative to males, females are particularly susceptible to diabetes-related declines in cognition with increasing age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin V Palarino
- Department of Sociology, 1877University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA.,Institute of Behavioral Science, 1877University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Jason D Boardman
- Department of Sociology, 1877University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA.,Institute of Behavioral Science, 1877University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Richard G Rogers
- Department of Sociology, 1877University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA.,Institute of Behavioral Science, 1877University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
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18
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Correro AN, Gauthreaux K, Perales-Puchalt J, Chen YC, Chan KC, Kukull WA, Flatt JD. Cognitive Aging with Dementia, Mild Cognitive Impairment, or No Impairment: A Comparison of Same- and Mixed-Sex Couples. J Alzheimers Dis 2023; 92:109-128. [PMID: 36710669 PMCID: PMC10029351 DOI: 10.3233/jad-220309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lesbian and gay older adults have health disparities that are risk factors for Alzheimer's disease, yet little is known about the neurocognitive aging of sexual minority groups. OBJECTIVE To explore cross-sectional and longitudinal dementia outcomes for adults in same-sex relationships (SSR) and those in mixed-sex relationships (MSR). METHODS This prospective observational study utilized data from the National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center Uniform Data Set (NACC UDS) collected from contributing Alzheimer's Disease Research Centers. Participants were adults aged 55+ years at baseline with at least two visits in NACC UDS (from September 2005 to March 2021) who had a spouse, partner, or companion as a co-participant. Outcome measures included CDR® Dementia Staging Instrument, NACC UDS neuropsychological testing, and the Functional Activities Questionnaire. Multivariable linear mixed-effects models accounted for center clustering and repeated measures by individual. RESULTS Both MSR and SSR groups experienced cognitive decline regardless of baseline diagnosis. In general, MSR and SSR groups did not differ statistically on cross-sectional or longitudinal estimates of functioning, dementia severity, or neuropsychological testing, with two primary exceptions. People in SSR with mild cognitive impairment showed less functional impairment at baseline (FAQ M = 2.61, SD = 3.18 vs. M = 3.97, SD = 4.53, respectively; p < 0.01). The SSR group with dementia had less steep decline in attention/working memory (β estimates = -0.10 versus -0.18; p < 0.01). CONCLUSION Participants in SSR did not show cognitive health disparities consistent with a minority stress model. Additional research into protective factors is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony N. Correro
- Mental Health Service, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System and Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Neurology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Kathryn Gauthreaux
- National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Yen-Chi Chen
- National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Statistics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Kwun C.G. Chan
- National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Walter A. Kukull
- National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jason D. Flatt
- Department of Social and Behavioral Health, School of Public Health, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV, USA
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19
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Hanes DW, Clouston SAP. Cognitive Aging in Same- and Different-Sex Relationships: Comparing Age of Diagnosis and Rate of Cognitive Decline in the Health and Retirement Study. Gerontology 2022; 69:356-369. [PMID: 36509083 PMCID: PMC9991936 DOI: 10.1159/000526922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The ongoing marginalization of lesbian, gay, and bisexual people has been hypothesized to produce poorer late-in-life cognitive outcomes, according to mechanisms posited by minority stress and allostatic load theories. Yet the existence of those outcomes remains understudied, and results of existing studies have been contradictory. Using a population-based longitudinal aging study, this paper will compare age at diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) or a related dementia and rates of cognitive decline between participants in same-sex relationships (SSRs) and different-sex relationships (DSRs). METHODS The study used longitudinal cognitive-health data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS; 1998-2018; N = 26,344) to analyze the onset of cognitive impairment and AD/dementia and the rates of cognitive change between participants in SSRs and those in DSRs. We hypothesized that SSR participants would have worse overall cognitive functioning in old age and would experience earlier onset of cognitive impairment. Using multiple regression, we compared the ages at which participants in SSRs and DSRs first reported AD or dementia diagnoses and the ages at which they first scored below cutoffs for cognitive impairment, not dementia (CIND) and possible dementia as determined using the cognitive assessment. The study then compared rates of cognitive decline over time across the SSR and DSR groups, including stratified analyses by education, race/ethnicity, wealth, and sex/gender. RESULTS Participants in SSRs reported dementia diagnoses (β = -12.346; p = 0.001), crossed the threshold into CIND (β = -8.815; p < 0.001) and possible dementia (β = -13.388; p < 0.001) at a younger age than participants in DSRs. When adjusted for covariates, participants in SSRs also had lower cognition at baseline (β = 0.745; p = 0.003), though having slower rates of cognitive decline when SSR was interacted with time (β = 0.066; p = 0.003). In separate analyses, cognitive differences for SSR participants were only found in participants without undergraduate degrees, with below-median household incomes, and women. CONCLUSION Our findings support theories suggesting that marginalization and stigma cause premature cognitive impairment. Findings also suggest that higher education might mitigate the adverse effects of sexuality-minority status on cognitive aging. Results do not support these theories' claims of more rapid cognitive decline; the lower slopes of cognitive decline with time are compatible with the possibility of slower rates of decline for aging individuals in SSRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas William Hanes
- Program in Public Health, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University; Stony Brook, New York, United States of America
- Centre for Sexual and Gender Minority Health, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto; Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sean A. P. Clouston
- Program in Public Health, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University; Stony Brook, New York, United States of America
- Department of Family, Population, and Preventive Medicine, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University; Stony Brook, New York, United States of America
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20
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Manca R, Correro AN, Gauthreaux K, Flatt JD. Divergent patterns of cognitive deficits and structural brain alterations between older adults in mixed-sex and same-sex relationships. Front Hum Neurosci 2022; 16:909868. [PMID: 36118969 PMCID: PMC9479099 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.909868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sexual minority (SM) older adults experience mental health disparities. Psychiatric disorders and neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) are risk factors for cognitive decline. Although older people in same-sex (SSR) compared to mixed-sex relationships (MSR) perform more poorly on cognitive screening tests, prior studies found no differences in rates of dementia diagnosis or neuropsychological profiles. We sought to explore the role of NPS on neurocognitive outcomes for SM populations. We compared cognitive performance and structural brain parameters of older adults in SSR and MSR. Methods Data were originally collected at Alzheimer's Disease Research Centers (ADRCs). Inclusion criteria were: age of 55+ years, a study partner identified as a spouse/partner, and availability of T1-MRI brain volumes/thickness. Participants were labeled as either SSR or MSR based on their/their co-participant's reported sex. We identified 1,073 participants (1,037 MSR-555 cognitively unimpaired [CU]; 36 SSR-23 CU) with structural MRI data, Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE), and Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire (NPI-Q) scores. A subset of the overall sample completed comprehensive neuropsychological assessment (n = 939; 908 MSR-494 CU; 31 SSR-22 CU). Covariates included in statistical models were age, sex, education, total intracranial volume, and apolipoprotein E genotype. Results Multivariate general linear models showed significant diagnosis-by-relationship interaction effects on the left parahippocampal gyrus volume. After stratification by relationship group, only cognitively impaired (CI) MSR had significantly smaller left parahippocampal volumes than MSR-CU. The SSR group showed better episodic memory performance. Severity of neuropsychiatric symptoms was negatively associated with volume/thickness of bilateral fronto-temporal areas and with MMSE scores, predominantly in the MSR group. Conclusion In our study, MSR participants presented with a more compromised cognitive profile than SSR participants. MSR-CI participants showed significantly smaller left medio-temporal volumes, a neural signature of AD. Neuropsychiatric symptoms predicted smaller fronto-temporal volumes in the MSR more consistently than in the SSR group. These findings may be due to unexplored protective factors against cognitive decline in SM elders. Indeed, social support has been proposed as a protective factor warranting future investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Manca
- Department of Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony N Correro
- Mental Health Service, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan Health, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Kathryn Gauthreaux
- National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center, Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Jason D Flatt
- Department of Social and Behavioral Health, School of Public Health, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV, United States
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21
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Flatt JD, Cicero EC, Lambrou NH, Wharton W, Anderson JG, Bouldin ED, McGuire LC, Taylor CA. Subjective cognitive decline higher among sexual and gender minorities in the United States, 2015-2018. ALZHEIMER'S & DEMENTIA (NEW YORK, N. Y.) 2021; 7:e12197. [PMID: 34337136 PMCID: PMC8319657 DOI: 10.1002/trc2.12197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Subjective cognitive decline (SCD) represents self-reported problems with memory, a possible early sign of dementia. Little is known about SCD among sexual and gender minority (SGM) adults who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, and/or transgender or gender non-binary. METHODS Data were weighted to represent population estimates from 25 states' 2015-2018 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System to describe SCD in adults ≥45 years by SGM status. Logistic regression tested associations between demographic and health conditions. RESULTS SCD prevalence was higher in SGM (15.7%; 95% confidence interval [CI]:13.1-18.2) than in non-SGM adults (10.5%; 95% CI:10.1-10.9; P < .0001). SGM adults with SCD were also more likely to report functional limitations due to SCD than non-SGM adults with SCD, 60.8% versus 47.8%, P = .0048. Differences in SCD by SGM status were attenuated after accounting for depression. DISCUSSION Higher prevalence of SCD in SGM adults highlights the importance of ensuring inclusive screenings, interventions, care services, and resources for SGM adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason D. Flatt
- School of Public HealthUniversity of Nevada Las VegasLas VegasNevadaUSA
| | - Ethan C. Cicero
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of NursingEmory UniversityAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Nickolas H. Lambrou
- Department of Medicine and Public HealthUniversity of Wisconsin‐MadisonMadisonWisconsinUSA
| | - Whitney Wharton
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of NursingEmory UniversityAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | | | - Erin D. Bouldin
- Division of Population HealthNational Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health PromotionCenters for Disease Control and PreventionAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
- Department of Health and Exercise ScienceAppalachian State UniversityBooneNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Lisa C. McGuire
- Division of Population HealthNational Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health PromotionCenters for Disease Control and PreventionAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Christopher A. Taylor
- Division of Population HealthNational Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health PromotionCenters for Disease Control and PreventionAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
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22
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Jacob L, López-Sánchez GF, Haro JM, Koyanagi A, Kostev K, Grabovac I, Oh H, Pardhan S, McDermott D, Shin JI, Smith L. Association between sexual orientation and subjective cognitive complaints in the general population in England. J Psychiatr Res 2021; 136:1-6. [PMID: 33540178 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2021.01.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
There is a scarcity of literature investigating the association between minority sexual orientations and subjective cognitive complaints (SCC). Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the association between identifying as a sexual minority and SCC in a large sample of adults from England. The study further aimed to identify the extent to which the association could be explained by several behavioral, psychological and clinical factors. Cross-sectional data from the 2007 Adult Psychiatric Morbidity Survey (APMS) were analyzed. Sexual orientation was dichotomized into heterosexual and sexual minority orientation. SCC referred to subjective concentration and memory complaints. Control variables included sex, age, ethnicity, marital status, education, employment, and income. Influential factors included smoking status, alcohol dependence, perceived stress, the number of stressful life events, depression, any anxiety disorder, sleep problems, and obesity. This study included 7,400 participants (51.4% women; mean [standard deviation] age 46.3 [18.6] years). After adjusting for control variables, sexual minority orientation was positively and significantly associated with subjective concentration (OR = 1.40, 95% CI = 1.12-1.76) but not memory complaints (OR = 1.19, 95% CI = 0.96-1.47). The number of stressful life events, sleep problems and any anxiety disorder explained 13.4%, 11.0% and 10.9% of the association between sexual orientation and subjective concentration complaints, respectively. In this large sample of English adults, identifying as a sexual minority was significantly associated with subjective concentration complaints, while stressful life events, sleep problems, and anxiety explained a large proportion of the association. Targeted interventions towards sexual minority groups to reduce SCC may be warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis Jacob
- Research and Development Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, CIBERSAM, Universitat de Barcelona, Dr. Antoni Pujadas, 42, Sant Boi de Llobregat, Barcelona, 08830, Spain; Faculty of Medicine, University of Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines, Montigny-le-Bretonneux, 78180, France
| | - Guillermo F López-Sánchez
- Vision and Eye Research Institute, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health, Education, Medicine and Social Care, Anglia Ruskin University-Cambridge Campus, Cambridge, United Kingdom.
| | - Josep Maria Haro
- Research and Development Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, CIBERSAM, Universitat de Barcelona, Dr. Antoni Pujadas, 42, Sant Boi de Llobregat, Barcelona, 08830, Spain
| | - Ai Koyanagi
- Research and Development Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, CIBERSAM, Universitat de Barcelona, Dr. Antoni Pujadas, 42, Sant Boi de Llobregat, Barcelona, 08830, Spain; ICREA, Pg. Lluis Companys 23, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Karel Kostev
- Philipps University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Igor Grabovac
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Centre for Public Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Hans Oh
- University of Southern California, Suzanne Dworak Peck School of Social Work, 1149 South Hill Street suite 1422, Los Angeles, CA, 90015, USA
| | - Shahina Pardhan
- Vision and Eye Research Institute, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health, Education, Medicine and Social Care, Anglia Ruskin University-Cambridge Campus, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Daragh McDermott
- School of Psychology and Sport Science, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Jae Il Shin
- Department of Pediatrics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Lee Smith
- The Cambridge Centre for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, UK
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