Researchers at Erasmus University have observed that lower bone density in older adults may be linked to a higher chance of developing dementia than those with stronger bones. The findings appear in a neurology journal report that analyzed long term data.
The study followed 3,651 seniors from the Netherlands for eleven years. On average, about 688 participants, or 19%, developed dementia during the study period. Bone density was measured using standard X-ray techniques. Participants also completed questionnaires and underwent cognitive and physical assessments roughly every four to five years.
Among the group, 1,211 people showed low body density. Of the 2,440 participants with higher bone density, 90 developed dementia within ten years, compared with 57 in the low-density group.
After adjusting for age, sex, education, other health conditions, medications, and family history, researchers found that those with the lowest bone density faced a 42% greater risk of developing dementia than those with the highest density.
The researchers emphasized that the study does not establish a cause-and-effect link. Still, bone loss may begin years before dementia symptoms become apparent, potentially serving as an early indicator of dementia risk. In such cases, individuals showing bone loss might be recommended for closer cognitive screening.
Experts note that low bone density and dementia commonly appear together in older adults, partly because reduced mobility and malnutrition often accompany dementia. Yet less is known about bone loss that occurs before dementia develops. Some researchers have suggested that early bone loss could precede measurable cognitive decline, and that recognizing this pattern might help identify people at higher risk of dementia [Citation: Neurology study].