The data from a large cardiovascular health study consisting of 2,220 participants was reanalyzed by researchers to identify any causes of early dementia, or mild cognitive impairment (MCI).  A positive association was found with cardiovascular disease measures and the early development of dementia.

The researchers also examined depression scores at the beginning of the study compared with early development of dementia 6 years later.  At the start of the study, all participants had high levels of cognitive function.  However, during the 6-year study, 10% of participants having no initial symptoms developed early dementia or MCI; 13.3% of people with “low symptoms” initially developed MCI; and 19.7% of people with “moderate to high symptoms” initially developed MCI.  This increased risk of early dementia associated with depression remained statistically significant even after adjusting for cardiovascular disease.

What it Means:

It seems that what is good preventive care for the heart is also good for the brain.  To maintain high metal ability throughout your life, follow these two strategies:

• Maintain good cardiovascular health by getting regular exercise, eating healthfully to keep cholesterol levels and blood pressure levels low, avoiding smoking, managing stress, etc.
• Maintain good mental health. Get treatment if you have any depressive symptoms (such as cognitive behavior therapy) and/or medications that can help improve depression. Staying physically active has also been shown to be helpful in preventing or lowering depression symptoms.

Source: Barnes, et al. (March 2006). Depressive Symptoms, Vascular Disease, and Mild Cognitive Impairment: Findings from the Cardiovascular Health Study. Archives of General Psychiatry, 63:273-280.