A&D: Stable employment in midlife linked to slower age-related memory decline

table employment in midlife is associated with better preservation of memory and other cognitive functions as people age. This is the conclusion reached by researchers from Columbia University, who analyzed 16 years of data from more than 2,400 Americans. The results were published in the journal Alzheimer’s & Dementia (A&D).

The researchers analyzed participants’ employment histories and assessed their cognitive function. They found that men with unstable employment had cognitive test scores corresponding to more pronounced brain aging — approximately seven years beyond the expected level.

Women who retired early or spent extended periods out of the workforce had lower scores in memory and executive functions related to planning and decision-making. According to the researchers’ estimates, these patterns were associated with approximately six additional years of brain aging.

By the end of the follow-up period, mild cognitive impairment or dementia had developed in approximately 30% of women and 31% of men.

The researchers believe that continuity of employment itself, rather than a person’s perception of job security, may be important for cognitive health. According to the authors, regular employment in midlife may help maintain mental activity and thus be associated with slower cognitive aging.

However, the researchers emphasize that the study demonstrates an association and does not prove that employment directly affects brain health. Other factors related to employment history and lifestyle may also influence cognitive health.

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