from a forwarded email
An increasing amount of research is being directed at finding ways to prevent Alzheimer’s. A recent study reported in the Archives of General Psychiatry (Volume 67, page 304) suggests that feeling like one has a purpose in life is linked to a reduced risk of Alzheimer's disease and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) among older people.
Over 950 participants, average age 80, from the Rush Memory and Aging Project were evaluated for up to seven years; none showed any evidence of Alzheimer’s at the onset of the study. The degree to which each participant felt he or she had some purpose in life was assessed on a questionnaire. Other variables, like depressive symptoms, size of social networks and education level, were recorded.
During the follow-up period, 155 participants developed Alzheimer's disease. Those who had a strong sense of purpose in life were 2.4 times more likely to remain free of Alzheimer's than those who did not. They also had a reduced risk of MCI and a slower overall rate of cognitive decline. The associations persisted after controlling for other variables.
Take away. The researchers note that having a purpose in life is a factor that can be modified, and strategies that help older people engage in meaningful, goal-directed activities may result in better physical and mental health and longevity.
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