ObjectivesWe examined associations of social engagement and interpersonal connectedness with cognitive function, distress, and mental and physical health in middle-aged and older American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) adults.MethodsData from 552 AI/ANs aged 55+ in the Rocky Mountain region (2019-2023). Social engagement and interpersonal connectedness were assessed using validated scales. Outcomes included cognitive impairment (adapted AD8), distress (K6 scale), and self-reported mental and physical health. Poisson regression models examined associations.ResultsGreater social engagement was significantly associated with a lower risk of cognitive impairment, lower odds of suboptimal mental, and physical health among AI/AN females, while greater interpersonal connectedness was significantly associated with lower risk of cognitive impairment and reduced odds of the other outcomes among AI/AN males. Associations were stronger in urban than rural areas.DiscussionCulturally tailored interventions that promote social connectedness may enhance well-being in this underserved population. Further research on sex and residence differences is warranted.
Dai et al. (Sun,) studied this question.