A recent study found that stressful life events, like the death of a loved one or divorce, increase the risk of developing dementia, but only if these events occur in childhood or midlife.
The study involved 1,290 people at increased risk of Alzheimer’s, examining 18 stressful events and their timing. Researchers found that stress during childhood and midlife is associated with Alzheimer’s biomarkers but not with reduced grey matter. It suggests that stress during these periods can have lasting impacts due to significant brain development and the accumulation of Alzheimer’s biomarkers. Additionally, those with a history of psychiatric disorders showed a link between total stressful life events and Alzheimer’s markers, brain inflammation, and decreased grey matter.
The research underscores the importance of early identification and intervention, such as coping strategies and lifestyle changes, to potentially reduce dementia risk.