Novel associations between life’s crucial 9 components and cognitive health in a National Cohort of Older Americans

This research sought to assess the relationship between LC9 and cognitive function among older adults in the United States. Data were sourced from the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011 to 2014. LC9 scores were derived from 9 health behaviors and factors. Cognitive function was evaluated using the CERAD Word Learning test, Animal Fluency test, and Digit Symbol Substitution Test. Multivariable linear regression models, restricted cubic spline analyses and subgroup analyses were utilized. Higher LC9 scores were significantly associated with better cognitive function across all models. In fully adjusted models, LC9 was positively associated with CERAD total score(β = 0.03, P = .006), delayed recall(β = 0.01, P = .024), Animal Fluency(β = 0.05, P = .012), and total cognitive function score(β = 0.19, P = .005). Among LC9 components, diet, blood pressure, blood glucose, and depression remained associated with cognitive function. The dose-response analysis supported these findings. Stronger associations were observed in participants ≥ 70 years and in women. This study shows a positive link between higher LC9 scores and cognitive performance in older U.S. adults. These findings have public health implications, lifestyle interventions could promote cognitive health and prevent decline.