Modifiable Risk Factors and Change in Cognition of Maori and Non-Maori in Advanced Age: LiLACS NZ.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: This study investigated whether previously identified modifiable risk factors for dementia were associated with cognitive change in Maori (indigenous people of New Zealand) and non-Maori octogenarians of LiLACS NZ (Life and Living in Advanced Age; a Cohort Study in New Zealand), a longitudinal study. METHOD: Multivariable repeated-measure mixed effect regression models were used to assess the association between modifiable risk factors and sociodemographic variables at baseline, and cognitive change over 6 years, with p values of <.05 regarded as statistically significant. RESULTS: Modifiable factors associated with cognitive change differed between ethnic groups. Depression was a negative factor in Maori only, secondary education in non-Maori was protective, and obesity predicted better cognition over time for Maori. Diabetes was associated with decreased cognition for both Maori and non-Maori. CONCLUSION: Our results begin to address gaps in the literature and increase understanding of disparities in dementia risk by ethnicity. These findings have implications for evaluating the type and application of culturally appropriate methods to improve cognition.