Exploring the Impact of Social Connection Dimensions on Cognitive Impairment in Older Adults: Observational Cohort Study

This study aimed to identify unique social connection factors associated with cognitive impairment among older adults. Longitudinal data from the 2010 to 2020 Health and Retirement Study were used. Discrete-time survival models were applied to examine the impact of the social factors like loneliness, depression, positive and negative support from family and friends, volunteerism, attending sports or social clubs, charity work, and computer use on cognitive impairment. The sample included 15 548 adults aged 50 and older, with 11.4% living in poverty. Key factors associated with cognitive impairment were loneliness, depression, charity work, participation in sports or social clubs, computer use, positive family support, and negative family support. In adults living in poverty, depression and computer use were most strongly linked to cognitive impairment. These results underscore the need for interventions and educational programs that help older adults maintain or improve cognitive function through enhanced social connections.