A recent study sheds light on how the communities we live in can impact our brain health, especially as we age. Researchers found that people living in disadvantaged neighborhoods are at a higher risk of developing mild cognitive impairment (MCI)—a condition that can lead to dementia. Factors like poor air quality, high crime rates, limited access to green spaces, and lower levels of education were all linked to a greater likelihood of experiencing MCI.
The study, which included over 2,800 participants aged 65 and older, highlighted how social and environmental conditions influence our mental health. For example, people exposed to more air pollution or living in areas with fewer parks were more likely to show signs of cognitive decline. Interestingly, the research also found that people from southern U.S. states had a higher risk of MCI.
Researchers emphasized that while individual factors like age, race, and education are important, it’s equally crucial to consider the community’s impact. They believe that by improving the environments we live in—whether it’s reducing pollution, increasing green spaces, or lowering crime—we could help protect brain health as we grow older.
The takeaway? The places we call home matter more than we think when it comes to keeping our minds sharp. So, creating healthier communities could be a key part of tackling cognitive decline in the future.
