Cognitive function in Vietnam: the effects of war exposure and social engagement
Year: 2024
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: OBJECTIVE: Vietnam is an LMIC in Asia that is experiencing rising cases of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD). Many Vietnamese adults at risk of ADRD have experienced early-life war exposures, which may have negative impacts on their cognitive function in later years. METHODS: Our study uses the Vietnam Health and Aging Study (VHAS) to investigate the impact of early-life war exposure on cognitive function in later life while also considering variations in social engagement. The sample consists of 2352 adults aged 60 and older from northern and central Vietnam. Cognitive function, measured by questions from the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), and self-rated memory are our dependent variables and five measures related to social engagement serve as independent variables. RESULTS: < 0.001; 95%). Similar results are also found among for individuals with lower level of social engagement. Furthermore, several sociodemographic factors exhibit attenuated effects on cognitive function due to variations in social engagement. CONCLUSION: Social engagement is generally beneficial for cognitive health amongst those with early-life war exposure, but it does not necessarily attenuate the effects of trauma.
Source: Aging & Mental Health
Authors: Jared M. Poff, Kim Korinek, Tran Khanh Toan
Institutions: University of Utah, Hanoi Medical University
Language: English
Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
Funder: National Institute on Aging
OpenAlex ID: W4400685932