Association between social participation and cognitive function among middle- and old-aged Chinese: A fixed-effects analysis

Abstract

Background Social Participation (SP) is known to benefit cognitive function. However, whether the positive relationship holds across different types of SP and dimensions of cognitive function, and whether the statement stays true in middle- and old-aged Chinese have not been investigated. The present study aimed to understand the current patterns of SP and cognitive function in China’s context, and therefore, explore the associations between cognitive function and SP at different levels from various aspects. Methods A total of 7973 community residents aged 45 years and older were selected from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS, 2011-2015). A fixed-effects analysis was used to explore the association between changes in SP (diversity, frequency, and type) and that in cognitive function (memory and mental status) over a four-year period. Results Changing from no SP to more variety (β = 0.377, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.192-0.562 for 1 type, β = 0.703, 95% CI = 0.470-0.937 for ≥2 types) or higher frequency (β = 0.235, 95% CI = 0.007-0.462 for not regularly, β = 0.604, 95% CI = 0.411-0.798) of SP was associated with improvements in cognitive function. Playing mah-jong and using Internet were associated with improved memory but not with mental status. Sports and volunteering were associated with improved mental status but not with memory. The same pattern was observed in men and in women. Conclusions The study confirmed that more diversity and higher frequency of SP was associated with improved cognitive function, whereas reminded policymakers to consider cultural context when developing target strategies to improve cognitive function.

Effects of Social Participation by Middle-Aged and Elderly Residents on the Utilization of Medical Services: Evidence From China

“…The incident odds of social participation in prior studies paralleled those in our study. The number of residents participating socially was not high ( 33 , 34 ). In contrast, the elderly in developed countries usually had high social participation rates ( 29 ).…”

Association of Playing Cards or Mahjong with Cognitive Function in Chinese Older Adults

“…This is similar to the results of previous studies. Zhou and colleagues [ 36 ] reported that a higher frequency of social participation (e.g., mahjong, cards, chess, or other activities) was related to a better level of cognitive function in middle- and old-aged adults. Mao et al [ 37 ] noted that more frequently engaging in cards or mahjong, watching TV, and reading newspapers or books may lower the risk of cognitive impairment in adults aged 80 years or older.…”

Social Isolation Is Associated With Rapid Kidney Function Decline and the Development of Chronic Kidney Diseases in Middle-Aged and Elderly Adults: Findings From the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS)

“…However, there is still a general lack of public awareness about social isolation in China. In fact, most findings on the adverse effects of social isolation have been produced in Western countries, and may therefore not fully pertain to the Chinese context ( 5 , 31 ). In this regard, perspectives on social isolation may markedly differ according to race, religion, community function, and other demographic factors.…”