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Impact of social network composition on cognitive decline: Digital Dementia Registry Bavaria (digiDEM Bayern)

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  • Lisa Laininger
  • Nikolas Dietzel
  • Elmar Graessel
  • Hans-Ulrich Prokosch
  • Peter L Kolominsky-Rabas

Abstract

Background: Currently, there is no curative treatment for dementia. The implementation of preventive measures is of great importance. Therefore, it is necessary to identify and address individual and modifiable risk factors. Social isolation, defined through social networks, is a factor that may influence the onset and progression of the disease. The networks of older people are mostly composed of either family or friends. The aim of this study is to examine the influence of social isolation and network composition on cognition over the course of 12 months in people with cognitive impairment. Methods: Data basis is the multicentre, prospective, longitudinal register study ‘Digital Dementia Registery Bavaria—digiDEM Bayern‘. The degree of social isolation was assessed using the Lubben Social Network Scale- Revised (LSNS-R) and the degree of cognitive impairment using the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), conducted at baseline and after 12 months. Data were analysed using pre-post ANCOVA, adjusted for baseline MMSE, age, gender, education, living situation and Barthel-Index. Results: 106 subjects (78.9 ± 8.2 years; 66% female) were included in the analysis. The mean MMSE score at baseline was 24.3 (SD = 3.6). Within the friendship subscore, risk for social isolation was highly prevalent (42.5%). Though, there was no difference between individuals with higher/ lower risk of social isolation within the friendship-network after adjusting for common risk factors in cognitive decline over time, F (1,98) = .046, p = .831, partial η2 = .000. Conclusion: The results of this study showed that the risk of social isolation from friends is very high among people with cognitive impairment. However, social isolation does not appear to have a bearing influence on the course of cognition. Nevertheless, it is important for people with cognitive impairment to promote and maintain close social contacts with friends.

Suggested Citation

  • Lisa Laininger & Nikolas Dietzel & Elmar Graessel & Hans-Ulrich Prokosch & Peter L Kolominsky-Rabas, 2024. "Impact of social network composition on cognitive decline: Digital Dementia Registry Bavaria (digiDEM Bayern)," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 19(7), pages 1-12, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:plo:pone00:0306447
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0306447
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    1. repec:plo:pmed00:1002862 is not listed on IDEAS
    2. Crooks, V.C. & Lubben, J. & Petitti, D.B. & Little, D. & Chiu, V., 2008. "Social network, cognitive function, and dementia incidence among elderly women," American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, vol. 98(7), pages 1221-1227.
    3. Isobel E M Evans & David J Llewellyn & Fiona E Matthews & Robert T Woods & Carol Brayne & Linda Clare & on behalf of the CFAS-Wales research team, 2018. "Social isolation, cognitive reserve, and cognition in healthy older people," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 13(8), pages 1-14, August.
    4. Katherine L. Fiori & Jacqui Smith & Toni C. Antonucci, 2007. "Social Network Types Among Older Adults: A Multidimensional Approach," The Journals of Gerontology: Series B, The Gerontological Society of America, vol. 62(6), pages 322-330.
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