A stark new study has established a direct connection between a person's financial earnings and their likelihood of developing dementia in later life.
The research, which analysed data from more than 5,000 adults in the United States, found that individuals with lower incomes face a significantly higher risk. This group was more likely to have conditions that contribute to cognitive decline.
The Link Between Poverty and Health Factors
According to the analysis, having a lower income was strongly associated with a higher prevalence of several health issues. These include high blood pressure, hearing loss, depression, and a sedentary lifestyle.
The findings, released on Thursday, 13 November 2025, suggest that one in five dementia cases among older people living below the poverty line could be connected to two specific factors: vision loss and social isolation.
Disproportionate Impact on Minority Groups
The study also highlighted significant health disparities. It found that historically underrepresented groups, specifically Black Americans and Hispanic Americans, showed a stronger link to dementia risk factors.
Even after researchers adjusted the data for income level, these groups were more likely to have conditions such as diabetes, obesity, vision loss, and physical inactivity.
Expert Recommendations for Risk Reduction
To help mitigate the risk of dementia, experts recommend a series of lifestyle changes. Key advice includes:
- Reducing alcohol intake
- Maintaining regular physical and mental activity
- Stopping smoking
- Protecting your eyesight and head from injury
The study also notes that environmental factors play a considerable role in an individual's overall risk profile, underscoring that dementia prevention is a complex issue influenced by both personal circumstance and wider societal structures.
