A study showed that poor cognition is not necessarily tied to age. Aging only accounted for 23% of cognitive decline in older Americans. While personal education was the biggest predictor, accounting for 25% of cognitive functioning, other factors, including race, household wealth and income, parental education, occupation, and depression, also contribute. The findings highlight the need for further research to understand and address cognitive decline.
Zheng H, Cagney K, Choi Y (2023) Predictors of cognitive functioning trajectories among older Americans: A new investigation covering 20 years of age- and non-age-related cognitive change. PLOS ONE 18(2): e0281139. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0281139
