In a recent meta-analysis published in Alzheimer’s and Dementia, the journal of the Alzheimer’s Association, researchers have identified a connection between specific personality traits and the risk of dementia. The comprehensive study, comprised of data from eight smaller studies involving 44,531 individuals aged 49 to 81, revealed that 1,703 participants developed dementia. Personality assessments were conducted alongside post-mortem brain examinations, providing insights into the intersection of personality and cognitive health.
The study focused on the “big five” personality traits: agreeableness, openness, extroversion, conscientiousness, and neuroticism. Additionally, it explored the impact of a positive affect, characterized by traits like joy, enthusiasm, and confidence, as well as a negative affect, associated with emotions such as anger, nervousness, and fear.
Results indicated that individuals with high levels of neuroticism and a negative affect faced an elevated long-term risk of developing dementia. Furthermore, lower levels of conscientiousness, extroversion, and positive affect were correlated with an increased risk. Conversely, those with a positive affect or traits like extroversion and conscientiousness exhibited a lower risk of developing dementia.
Dr. Joel Salinas, a clinical assistant professor of neurology at NYU Langone Health and chief medical officer of Isaac Health, emphasized the importance of interpreting these findings cautiously. While the study suggests an association between personality traits and dementia risk, it does not establish a direct causation. The study did not reveal a clear link between personality and underlying disease, leaving the potential influence of other factors uncertain.
The research also faced limitations, with Dr. Riddhi Patira, leader of the frontotemporal dementia consortium at the University of Pittsburgh Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, pointing out the unclear distinction between types of dementia, such as Alzheimer’s or general memory problems.
Furthermore, Salinas noted that the study’s second part, focusing on participants’ brain changes, relied on a smaller sample size than the initial phase. Despite these limitations, researchers speculated that certain mediators associated with neuroticism or negative affect, such as sleep disturbances, depression, and cognitive test performance, could contribute to dementia risk.
The study concludes with a reminder that individuals with personality traits linked to higher dementia diagnoses should not panic. The absence of direct causation suggests the need for a measured response. Suggestions for self-care, including exercise, adequate sleep, and a nutritious diet, are highlighted as potential mitigating factors. Seeking support from healthcare professionals is also recommended for those facing challenges in adopting these lifestyle modifications. Overall, the study underscores the importance of recognizing potential correlations while acknowledging the complexity of dementia risk factors.
