Does anxiety increase risk for dementia? Making sense of the latest research findings

The link between anxiety and dementia has been the subject of considerable medical research over the last few decades. While some researchers have demonstrated links between anxiety disorders and cognitive decline, other studies have shown the opposite. Overall, past research has stopped short of uncovering how different kinds of anxiety – such as new onset anxiety in later age – may impact one’s risk for dementia.

Last week, an illuminating new study by Khaing, K., et al. in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society shed new light on the link between anxiety and the risk of developing dementia.1  Their research study included over 2,000 participants with an average age of 76 years. Let’s translate the findings together.

New onset anxiety in later age associated with dementia risk

Unlike previous studies, this new study by Khaing, K., et al. takes a nuanced approach by distinguishing between chronic, resolved, and new onset anxiety. Notably, they discovered a strong association between new onset anxiety and the risk of developing dementia of any cause (Alzheimer’s disease, vascular disease, or other causes). The researchers also found a higher risk observed in participants under the age of 70. 

What does this mean? As our chief medical officer Dr. Joel Salinas shared with CNN, there are a number of possible explanations for this. On the one hand, anxiety may be an early manifestation of underlying brain disease. On the other hand, early cognitive decline may also be a significant contributor to a person’s anxiety. For example, a person with early cognitive decline may make mistakes in social situations and feel embarrassed, resulting in new onset anxiety. 

While this directionality can be challenging to parse – whether anxiety increases dementia risk or the early onset of dementia causes new anxiety – there are nonetheless a few key takeaways. Developing new anxiety, especially later in life, warrants a timely evaluation to determine the cause of that new anxiety. This allows for the opportunity for early treatment, the importance of which is explored in the next key finding from the study.

Unresolved anxiety can also increase the risk of dementia

According to the study, unresolved anxiety can increase the likelihood of dementia from various causes, including Alzheimer’s disease and vascular disease. This may reflect the impact of chronic stress on the brain, as prolonged anxiety can lead to increased levels of stress hormones that have the potential to damage brain regions involved in memory and cognition. Stress resulting from anxiety might also contribute to inflammation and other physiological changes that increase dementia risk. These findings underscore the importance of taking proactive steps to manage anxiety, when present, especially so it doesn’t become a chronic condition.

Mental health is brain health

Recognizing the bidirectional relationship between mental and physical health is critical. Just as chronic anxiety can increase dementia risk, improving mental health can positively affect overall well-being and cognitive function. Early and proactive mental health care is essential for your long term health. As we often like to say, mental health is brain health.

Managing anxiety can involve various strategies. Physical activity, mindfulness meditation, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and medication (when necessary) can help with managing anxiety. If you are experiencing anxiety, we encourage you to seek help from experienced healthcare professionals to understand its cause and develop a personalized plan to manage these symptoms. Addressing anxiety is not only crucial for mental well-being but also for maintaining cognitive health as we age. At Isaac Health, our multidisciplinary team is here to support you on your brain health journey. Reach out for a free initial consultation with one of our specialized Care Navigators to find out how we can help.