A new study published in the journal Alzheimer's & Dementia has found that unmarried individuals, including those who have never married, are divorced or widowed, have a 50% lower risk of developing dementia compared to their married peers, writes A2 CNN.
The study was conducted in the US with over 24,000 people aged 50 to 104 and was followed for a period of 18 years. They underwent periodic neuropsychological tests to verify their cognitive status. Already at the first test some had shown signs of a mild cognitive deficit, but in those who were not married this rarely turned into full-blown dementia.
To confirm the reliability of the results, the researchers also analyzed other factors that may influence the development of dementia, such as age, gender, ethnicity, education, smoking, and other aspects of physical and mental health.
According to researchers, married people tend to have more socially isolated and structured lives, which can negatively affect brain stimulation. By being locked in a routine "couple" universe, the brain would be less stimulated and therefore would suffer more easily from cognitive decline. While single people are generally more independent, another factor that helps keep the mind active.
However, the results are not conclusive. Previous studies have shown that marriage may have protective effects, thanks to emotional support and daily interaction with a partner.
The authors suggest that a more socially active and less routine life may help protect the brain from cognitive decline. (A2 Televizion)
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