Neighborhood environments and transition to cognitive states: Sydney Memory and Ageing Study

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Features of the neighborhood environment and ambient air pollution have been associated with onset and progression of neurocognitive disorders, but data from longitudinal population-based studies are limited. METHODS: One thousand thirty-six participants (78.3 ± 4.8 years) of the Sydney Memory and Ageing Study were followed for up to 13.7 years with biennial cognitive assessments. Neighborhood environmental features were assessed around the participants’ homes. Associations between environmental features and transitions to cognitive states were estimated. RESULTS: Population density, street connectivity, access to commercial services, public transport, water bodies, and tree ca..