Summary
A study found that more Americans, especially those under 40, are reporting issues with memory, focus, and decision-making. The rate of self-reported cognitive disabilities doubled among younger adults over the past decade. Various factors, such as income and education level, appeared to influence these rates.
Key Facts
- The study focused on self-reported cognitive issues among U.S. adults over ten years.
- Rates of cognitive disability nearly doubled among adults aged 18 to 39 from 5.1% in 2013 to 9.7% in 2023.
- Rates among those aged 70 or older fell slightly from 7.3% to 6.6%.
- People with incomes below $35,000 reported higher rates, increasing from 8.8% to 12.6%.
- Adults without a high school diploma reported the highest rates, rising from 11.1% to 14.3%.
- Rates increased among nearly all racial and ethnic groups, with Native American and Alaska Native adults seeing a rise from 7.5% to 11.2%.
- The study excluded some groups, such as those with depression and dementia, and did not include 2020 data due to COVID-19 impacts.
- Researchers noted a need for further study to understand the causes and to address social and economic factors.
