Researchers found that even if you reach the age of 90 without dementia, your risk of developing the condition remains influenced by factors like sex, race, and genetics. A recent study from UC Davis Health revealed that women and Black individuals have significantly higher risks of dementia in their 90s. This research is crucial as the global population of those aged 90 and older is expected to rise sharply, highlighting the need for better understanding of cognitive health in this age group.

For those looking to age well, the findings underscore the importance of recognizing that dementia risk does not simply disappear with age. Women over 90 are at about twice the risk of men, while Black participants face a 75% higher risk compared to their Asian counterparts. Understanding these disparities can help individuals and healthcare providers take proactive steps in monitoring and managing cognitive health as they age.

The study, part of the LifeAfter90 project, analyzed data from over 800 participants, making it the first large-scale investigation of dementia risk in a diverse group of people aged 90 and older. While the research shows strong evidence of continuing disparities in dementia risk, it also raises questions about why some individuals remain cognitively healthy despite having known risk factors. This could lead to insights on protective factors that help certain people avoid dementia, even when they carry genetic risks like the APOE4 gene variant.

As we learn more about these dynamics, it’s essential for healthcare providers to tailor their approaches based on individual risk factors, rather than assuming that reaching 90 without dementia guarantees safety from cognitive decline.