Does education prevent the development of dementia?

Author(s): RiedelHeller, S. G., Becker, T.

Journal/Book: Psychiat Prax. 1999; 26: P O Box 30 11 20, D-70451 Stuttgart, Germany. Georg Thieme Verlag. 112+.

Abstract: Purpose: The association of education and the risk of developing dementia are reviewed. Proposed underlying mechanisms are discussed with the particular reference to social aspects. Methods: The discussion is based on recent work published on the association of education and dementia risk dealing with incident cases. Results: Strength and consistency of the association as well as the partly established dose response relationship indicate that higher education is associated with a lower risk of developing dementia. This had been explained as a consequence of a greater,brain reserve capacity'', which might be constituted by different mechanisms in early periods of CNS-development and during adulthood. Conclusions: Education rather compensates neuro-degenerative changes than protects from dementia. Clinical signs of dementia will be delayed but not prevented, The knowledge about social aspects of this process implies the search for interventions.

Note: Review Aurich C, Univ Leipzig, Psychiat Klin & Poliklin, Johannisallee 20, D-04317 Leipzig, GERMANY

Keyword(s): ALZHEIMERS-DISEASE; RISK-FACTORS; POPULATION; PREVALENCE; AGE; OCCUPATION; IMPACT; OLDER; SEX

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