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New Study Reveals: Lack of Food Linked to Faster Cognitive Decline in Older Adults.
A recent study has shed light on a concerning association between food insufficiency and more rapid cognitive decline among older adults.
The study found that older individuals experiencing food insufficiency are more likely to face physical limitations, malnutrition, and depression.
The research, which analyzed data from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), found that older adults who lacked access to sufficient food experienced a greater cognitive decline than those who had sufficient food.
This decline may be attributed to poor nutrition or the stress of financial hardship that prevents individuals from purchasing the food they need.
The proportion of older adults experiencing food insufficiency in the United States has more than doubled over the last decade, increasing from 5.5% to 12.4%. This worrying trend highlights the need for further attention and support to address food insecurity among older populations.
The consequences of cognitive decline are significant, particularly for older individuals. In fact, just four years of brain aging can have a considerable impact. Compared to those who had enough food, individuals with food insufficiency exhibited cognitive decline equivalent to being 3.8 years older.
Summary
The findings of this study underscore the importance of addressing food insecurity among older populations to mitigate the risk of cognitive decline. The study is published in The Journal of Nutrition.
