Alzheimer's Society comment on purpose of life scores reducing risk of Alzheimer's disease

Researchers in Chicago measured purpose of life of 951 older people who did not have dementia over an average of four years.

People who scored in the top 10 per cent on the purpose of life measure were found to be approximately 2.4 times less likely to develop Alzheimer's disease than those in the bottom 10 per cent.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'This study builds on previous research that suggests the way we live our lives can affect our risk of developing dementia. Scientists believe dementia is the result of a combination of lifestyle, genetic and environmental factors.

'However, more research is needed to determine exactly how this equation is balanced and whether a measure of purpose of life definitely has a role to play. One in three people over the age of 65 will die with dementia. Ahead of the election, we need commitments from all political parties for a prioritisation of dementia research funding so we can move forward in our understanding of this devastating condition.'

Andrew Ketteringham
Director of External Affairs
Alzheimer's Society