Different loneliness types, cognitive function, and brain structure in midlife: Findings from the Framingham Heart Study
Qiushan Tao, Samia C. Akhter‐Khan, Ting Fang Alvin Ang, Charles DeCarli, Michael L. Alosco, Jesse Mez, Ronald Killiany, Sherral Devine, Ami Rokach, Indira Swetha Itchapurapu, Xiaoling Zhang, Kathryn L. Lunetta, David C. Steffens, Lindsay A. Farrer, Douglas N. Greve, Rhoda Au, Wei Qiao Qiu
Abstract
Background: It remains unclear whether persistent loneliness is related to brain structures that are associated with cognitive decline and development of Alzheimer's disease (AD). This study aimed to investigate the relationships between different loneliness types, cognitive functioning, and regional brain volumes. Methods: 4). Findings: 4. Interpretation: Persistent loneliness in midlife was associated with atrophy in brain regions responsible for memory and executive dysfunction. Interventions to reduce the chronicity of loneliness may mitigate the risk of age-related cognitive decline and AD. Funding: US National Institute on Aging.