Incredible, but true: marriage could increase the risk of dementia, but what are the reasons?
TL; Dr
- Marriage could increase the risk of dementia in the elderly.
- Unmarried people have shown a lower risk of dementia.
- It is necessary to conduct more research on this subject.
Marriage and dementia: a complex relationship
It is common to associate love, compatibility and long -term commitment to marriage. However, a recent study by Florida State University suggests that marriage could increase the risk of dementia in the elderly.
Surprising results
During this study, conducted by Selin Karakose and his colleagues, more than 24,000 Americans, an average age of 72, were followed over a period of up to 18 years. The researchers examined four groups: married, widowed, divorced and single people. The results were unexpected.
-According to study authors, unmarried people may have a lower risk of dementia than married people. After adjustment for age and sex, it was found that people who had never been married had 40% less risk of developing dementia than those who were married. Widowed and divorced people had 27% and 34% less risk respectively.
Hypothetical theories
The study does not give a clear answer as to the reasons why married people may have a higher risk of dementia. However, some supposed theories could be:
- Married people could have more limited social networks and be less independent, which could affect brain health.
- Stress linked to caregivers or relational problems in marriage could play a role.
- It is also possible that unmarried people are less likely to be diagnosed as damage to dementia, rather than really having a lower risk.
What about in reality?
It is important to emphasize that this study does not mean that all married people will develop dementia. What the study suggests is that the link between marriage and dementia is complex and requires more research. Rather than worrying about marrying or not to reduce their risk of dementia, individuals should focus on the search for the right partner, who will enrich their lives in various ways and work to make their marriage solid and happy, which “In any case, will cause less stress/may develop dementia”.
