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Tuesday, April 11, 2023

Complex work with people improves episodic memory, promotes brain reserve, reduces dementia risk

 Max E. ColemanMeghan E. H. RoesslerSiyun PengAdam R. RothShannon L. RisacherAndrew J. SaykinLiana G. Apostolova, Brea L. Perry



https://doi.org/10.1002/alz.13035


Abstract

Individuals with more complex jobs experience better cognitive function in old age and a lower risk of dementia, yet complexity has multiple dimensions. Drawing on the Social Networks in Alzheimer Disease study, we examine the association between occupational complexity and cognition in a sample of older adults (N = 355). A standard deviation (SD) increase in complex work with people is associated with a 9% to 12% reduction in the probability of mild cognitive impairment or dementia, a 0.14–0.19 SD increase in episodic memory, and a 0.18–0.25 SD increase in brain reserve, defined as the gap (residual) between global cognitive function and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) indicators of brain atrophy. In contrast, complexity with data or things is rarely associated with cognitive outcomes. We discuss the clinical and methodological implications of these findings, including the need to complement data-centered activities (e.g., Sudoku puzzles) with person-centered interventions that increase social complexity.

CONFLICTS OF INTEREST STATEMENT

Andrew J. Saykin: Avid Radiopharmaceuticals, a subsidiary of Eli Lilly, provided Saykin with the in-kind contribution of a PET-tracer precursor to Indiana University. Liana G. Apostolova: Received consulting fees from Biogen, NIH Biobank, Two Labs, Eli Lilly, IQVIA, GE Healthcare, Florida Department of Health, Eisai, Genentech, and Roche Diagnostics; holds stock or stock options in Cassava Neurosciences and Golden Seeds; and has received equipment from Avid Radiopharmaceuticals, Life Molecular Imaging, and Roche Diagnostics. All other authors have no conflict of interest to disclose. Author disclosures are available in the supporting information.

https://alz-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/alz.13035

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