Carlos Solis
A team of researchers from the United States, led by neurologist Ka-Ho Wong from the University of Utah, analyzed survey data from over 4.5 million people. They found that over the past decade, the most significant increase in cognitive disorders has been observed among individuals aged 18 to 39.
Overall, the researchers reported a noticeable and concerning rise in the number of adults experiencing issues with memory, decision-making, or concentration. These conditions are collectively referred to as “cognitive disability,” according to the publication Science Alert.
The percentage of American adults with cognitive disabilities increased from 5.3% to 7.4% between 2013 and 2023. Among those under 40, this figure nearly doubled, soaring from 5.1% to 9.7% during the same period.
“Deteriorating memory and thinking have become a major health concern reported by adults in the U.S.,” noted vascular neurologist Adam de Havenon from Yale University.
The level of cognitive disorders, as reported by study participants, has risen across most age groups. However, this trend was not observed among older adults. Researchers found that the percentage of cognitive issues among individuals aged 70 and older actually decreased slightly, from 7.3% in 2013 to 6.6% in 2023.
The team says the causes of the decline in cognitive function are likely social factors, particularly socioeconomic status. People with annual incomes below $35,000 or with lower levels of education saw a larger increase in cognitive disorders compared to other groups.
The team says this troubling trend may be partially explained by people’s greater willingness to report mental health problems and by the effects of the coronavirus pandemic. These days, people—especially younger generations—are more open to discussing their mental health.
The researchers identified key factors linked to declining cognitive abilities among younger adults, including job uncertainty and a growing dependence on digital technology.
“We need to better understand and consider the underlying social and economic factors that may be driving this trend,” de Havenon emphasized.
The findings of the study were published in the journal Neurology.
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