Social Determinants of Health for Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Dementias

Abstract

Dementia is the 7th leading cause of death in the United States and leads to significant distress, disability, and economic burden. Social determinants of health (SDoH) are the nonbiological factors that impact health outcomes, functioning, and quality of life. Cumulative effects of SDoH across a lifespan can affect the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD). While there is significant research on the biological factors of ADRD, the SDoH of ADRD are not well characterized. In this article, we review the SDoH that contribute to ADRD. Economic instability, poor education access and quality, poor health care access, unsafe neighborhoods, environmental pollution, lack of social engagement, and racial discrimination can increase the risk of ADRD. Prevention and intervention strategies to combat social isolation include technology-based interventions such as pet robots and dementiafriendly communities.