Association between life’s essential 8 and cognitive impairment in older patients: results from NHANES 2011–2014

This study investigates the link between cardiovascular health (CVH), assessed using the American Heart Association's "Life's Essential 8" (LE8) algorithm, and cognitive impairment in older adults. Using data from 2,415 participants aged 60+, it found that higher CVH scores significantly reduce the odds of cognitive impairment across measures of memory, processing speed, and fluency. Key lifestyle factors in LE8, such as diet, exercise, and sleep, were highlighted as protective against cognitive decline. This underscores the importance of cardiovascular health in maintaining cognitive function, providing evidence that better heart health supports brain health.

Adopting the habits outlined in LE8—balanced diet, regular exercise, quality sleep, and avoiding smoking—can enhance both cardiovascular and cognitive health. Given the study's robust design and consistent findings, its recommendations are widely applicable. Start with moderate changes like 30 minutes of exercise daily or incorporating more fruits and vegetables into meals to improve overall health and reduce cognitive decline risks.