Scientists in Germany found a group of more than 400 nuns the perfect sample group for an investigation into links between education and senility, the lead researcher said Wednesday.
The nuns from a sorority in Bavaria in southern Germany were chosen so as to eliminate any outside influences that might falsify the results, psychologist and epidemiologist Horst Bickel told the Catholic press agency KNA.
Dementia
There are over 24 million people with dementia and its incidence is on the rise. Prevention through lifestyle changes is the sensible way to a dementia-free life.
There are over 24 million people with dementia and its incidence is on the rise. Prevention through lifestyle changes is the sensible way to a dementia-free life.
The results were telling. Out of 442 nuns studied, 104 showed signs of dementia. Ninety-two of those had a low level of education, showing a correlation between education level when young and the development of cognitive difficulties in later life.
The study also showed that nuns who had been entrusted with positions of responsibility were less at risk of developing senility.
Middle-Aged Singles At High Risk Of Developing Dementia: Study
People who live alone in middle age face nearly double the risk of developing cognitive problems in later life compared with married or cohabiting counterparts, according to a study published Friday.
People who live alone in middle age face nearly double the risk of developing cognitive problems in later life compared with married or cohabiting counterparts, according to a study published Friday.
Source-AFP
LIN
Nuns to Leave Behind Their Brains for Age-related Disorder Study
Participants are 678 American members of the School Sisters of Notre Dame religious congregation who are 75 to 106 years of age.
Participants are 678 American members of the School Sisters of Notre Dame religious congregation who are 75 to 106 years of age.
