Gentrification and Cognitive Decline in Older Adults: Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis
2024

Gentrification and Cognitive Decline in Older Adults

Sample size: 1292 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Hirsch Jana, Moore Kari, Yazdi Reyhaneh Akbar Nejad, Besser Lilah, Hughes Timothy, Michael Yvonne

Primary Institution: Drexel University Dornsife School of Public Health

Hypothesis

Gentrification may influence cognitive function in older adults either positively or negatively.

Conclusion

Gentrification is associated with a lower risk of cognitive decline in older adults, particularly in neighborhoods with improved socioeconomic conditions.

Supporting Evidence

  • Participants in gentrified neighborhoods had a 5% lower risk of cognitive decline compared to those in disadvantaged neighborhoods.
  • Those in continually advantaged neighborhoods had a 10% lower risk of cognitive decline.

Takeaway

Moving to a nicer neighborhood can help older people think better, but it can also be stressful if they have to leave their homes.

Methodology

The study examined cognitive function changes in participants from the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis over a period of time, categorizing neighborhoods based on their gentrification status.

Participant Demographics

Multi-ethnic and geographically diverse population.

Statistical Information

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/geroni/igae098.4200

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