Single-Divorced? You are at higher risk of dementia 'biggest killer' than cancer or heart disease: Study

Are you single or seperated ? If yes, than this is to inform you that you are at a risk of dementia, new research has found. According to the reports, Dementia is set to be the 21st century’s biggest killer – and it costs the economy more than cancer or heart disease. 

The most common type of dementia, Alzheimer's disease, affects around 5 million people in the United States aged 65 and older, according to the National Institute on Aging (NIA). However, this is only one of many forms of the condition, and the NIA estimate that between 20 percent and 40 percent of people diagnosed with the disorder have it in one of its other forms.

Some of the risk factors for dementia previously identified by the NIA include age, drinking habits, diabetes, hypertension, depression, and smoking.

However this, dementia still doesn’t get the attention it deserves.

The findings, which were presented at the Alzheimer's Association International Conference in London, found being single increased the chance of getting dementia by 42 per cent. 

The review of 14 studies also indicated that those who were widowed had their chance of getting dementia go up by a quarter.

The research, carried by experts from Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust and University College London, found no increased risk for divorced people.

Dementia commonly occurs is people over the age of 65 and is associated with an ongoing decline of the brain and its abilities.

Dr Laura Phipps, from Alzheimer's Research UK, tried to explain the results by saying spouses might help encourage crucial healthy habits and provide necessary social support. 

Researchers from University College London in the UK reviewed 14 existing studies.

"There is compelling research showing married people generally live longer and enjoy better health, with many different factors likely to be contributing to that link,"said Laura Phipps, from Alzheimer's Research UK.

"People who are married tend to be financially better off, a factor that is closely inter woven with many aspects of our health,” Dr Phipps said. 

"Spouses may help to encourage healthy habits, look out for their partner's health and provide important social support.

"Research suggests that social interaction can help to build cognitive reserve - a mental resilience that allows people to function for longer with a disease like Alzheimer's before showing symptoms.”

It is very common to feel isolated or withdrawn from others after receiving your diagnosis or as the disease progresses.

With PTI Inputs