A Study of the Relationship between Social Interaction and Dementia in Older Adults

摘要

The population of dementia patients is increasing rapidly and an effective treatment is yet to be developed. Thus, the prevention of dementia is necessary and the role of social interaction in preventing dementia needs to be highlighted. The current study aims to clarify the relationship between social interaction and symptoms of dementia. This was a three-year longitudinal prospective cohort study called “Community Empowerment and Care for Well-being and Healthy Longevity,” using data from a project of a suburban area. The current study used the data from 2008 to 2011 and focused on older adults aged 60 years and above. The Index of Social Interaction was used to measure social interaction, and data on dementia was taken from the Health and Welfare Center of the local government. Demographic background was also considered. A chi-square test and a logistical regression analysis were used to examine the relationship between changes in social interaction and dementia. Participants in the study were 315 men (M = 73 years) and 377 women (M = 74 years) with healthy cognitive functioning participated in the current study. The chi-square test showed a positive association between social interaction and dementia risk. Furthermore, the multiple logistic analysis revealed that the items of “Interaction with non-family persons” (OR = 3.36) and “Reading newspapers” (OR = 2.25) were significantly related to symptoms of dementia after three years. The current study clarified the relationship between social interaction and the incidence of dementia symptoms. It indicated that participating in social interactions can prevent dementia.