Cognitive decline may be worsened by one 'body weight' factor in older adults

Changes in weight from one year to the next may increase the risk of worsening cognitive decline, according to new research. This supposed threat is particularly worrying for adults over 65 whose weight repeatedly changes by 'more than 5%'.

The new study, led by Pennsylvania State University, analysed 11 years of data on weight, body mass index, and circumference to understand how they influence changes in the brain. This included information from over 4,000 older adults, with their information recorded between 2011 and 2021.

Unfortunately, regardless of how researchers examined the data, one pattern was reportedly 'crystal clear'. While some cognitive decline is expected with age, adults who experienced greater weight fluctuations were at a much higher risk.

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Associate Professor Muzi Na explained: "We examined 11 years of data related to weight, body mass index and waist circumference. We conducted three different types of analysis on how those measures compared to cognitive decline.

"Any way we looked at the data, the relationship was crystal clear — the more a person’s weight varied from year to year, the faster that person experienced cognitive decline."

Decline in cognitive function typically refers to the onset of difficulties with a person's thinking, memory, learning, or decision-making abilities. Symptoms may include trouble concentrating or completing usual tasks, in addition to memory loss and comprehension difficulties.

Having mild cognitive impairment, a common form of cognitive decline, can potentially increase the risk of developing dementia caused by Alzheimer's disease and similar conditions. Currently, theNHS estimates that over 944,000 peoplein the UK are grappling with dementia.

Within the new research, scientists found that both 'losing at least 5% of one’s weight' and 'cycling between weight loss and gain of at least 5% of one’s weight' were linked to faster cognitive decline. Meanwhile, older adults who put on weight showed a similar level of cognitive decline to those whose weight remained stable.

Nonetheless, researchers said this doesn't mean putting on weight is a good idea either. Associate Professor Na continued: "Mid-life obesity is a known risk factor for cognitive decline later in life, but there is an 'obesity paradox' associating late-life obesity with a healthier cognitive trajectory.

"Some studies have revealed a complex interplay between age-related muscle mass loss and fat gain in older adults, and our study does not suggest older adults should gain weight." In light of these results, Dr Na stressed that older adults should track their weight at home in a more consistent way.

For instance, this could simply involve hopping onto the scales at the same time each morning before breakfast to provide a consistent dataset. If their weight fluctuates considerably, Associate Professor Na believes it may be wise to consult a physician.

She continued: "From one doctor’s appointment to the next, the way weight is measured may not be consistent. Perhaps you have your coat and shoes on one time, and the next time you are in light clothes and socks.

"To make sure you understand what is happening to their body and brain, older adults should track their weight at home in a more consistent way."

Key early signs of dementia

Although signs of dementia can differ based on the type, common early symptoms may include:

• Difficulty concentrating
• Finding it hard to carry out familiar daily tasks, such as getting confused over the correct change when shopping
• Memory loss
• Struggling to follow a conversation or find the right word
• Being confused about time and place
• Mood changes

The NHS encourages anyone experiencing these symptoms to seek medical advice.