Do Socioeconomic Disparities Affect the Incidence of Dementia?

Compared with white Americans, black Americans have a higher incidence of chronic disease, a shorter life expectancy, and worse health outcomes. Socioeconomic status may contribute to the higher rate of dementia seen in black compared with white older people. Socioeconomic disadvantages experienced by older black people lead to fewer educational opportunities, which may explain the increased rate of cognitive decline. Epidemiological studies have shown that education and literacy may be protective factors against cognitive decline. To examine this issue, researchers conducted a longitudinal study involving 2457 people (mean age, 73.6 years) who were dementia-free at baseline. Participants reported demographics and socioeconomic measures inc…