Does being single in midlife increase risk of dementia?

Published 3 July 2009

Middle-aged people living alone have twice the risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer's disease in later life compared with married or cohabiting people, according to a study published on bmj.com.

The cardiovascular Risk Factors, Aging and Dementia study also found that being widowed or divorced in midlife carries three times the risk. The research was led by Miia Kivipelto from the Swedish medical university Karolinska Institutet. 2,000 men and women from two regions in Eastern Finland were surveyed at approximately 50 years of age and again around 21 years later.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'Evidence suggests that remaining socially active may reduce your risk of dementia and living with someone is certainly a good way of doing this. Other lifestyle factors associated with living together may also help reduce your risk.

However, single people shouldn't worry - there are many other ways to reduce your risk of dementia. The best evidence is around eating a Mediterranean diet, exercising regularly, and getting your cholesterol and blood pressure checked regularly.'

Dr Susanne Sorensen
Head of Research
Alzheimer's Society