Being single ‘increases your risk of developing Alzheimer’s by 40%’, experts warn
BEING single increases your risk of dementia, new research suggests.
A review of 14 studies presented at the Alzheimer's Association International Conference in London found that those who weren’t married were 42 per cent more likely to develop the disease.
And being a widow see’s your chances of developing dementia jump by a quarter.
But there is no increased risk for divorced people, according to experts from University College London and Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust who carried out the research.
Experts suggested that some habits, such as staying active and social interaction, may be behind the findings.
Dr Laura Phipps, from Alzheimer's Research UK, said: "There is compelling research showing married people generally live longer and enjoy better health, with many different factors likely to be contributing to that link.
"People who are married tend to be financially better off, a factor that is closely interwoven with many aspects of our health.
"Spouses may help to encourage healthy habits, look out for their partner's health and provide important social support.”
Other research suggests that being social could help build up cognitive reserve – a mental resilience that allows people to function for longer with a with a disease like Alzheimer's before showing symptoms.
Laura added: “While people who are unmarried or widowed may have fewer opportunities for social engagement as they age, this certainly isn't always the case.
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“This research points to differences in levels of physical activity and education underlying much of the differences in dementia risk between single, married and widowed people.
“Staying physically, mentally and socially active are all important aspects of a healthy lifestyle and these are things everyone, regardless of their marital status, can work towards.”
Things like being fired, going bankrupt or watching your parents divorce can cause inflammation in the brain and depression, both of which are linked to developing dementia.
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