Modifiable Risk Factors and Change in Cognition of Māori and Non-Māori in Advanced Age: LiLACS NZ.

Objective: This study investigated whether previously identified modifiable risk factors for dementia were associated with cognitive change in Māori (indigenous people of New Zealand) and non-Māori octogenarians of LiLACS NZ (Life and Living in Advanced Age; a Cohort Study in New Zealand), a longitudinal study.

Method: Multivariable repeated-measure mixed effect regression models were used to assess the association between modifiable risk factors and sociodemographic variables at baseline, and cognitive change over 6 years, with values of <.05 regarded as statistically significant.

Results: Modifiable factors associated with cognitive change differed between ethnic groups. Depression was a negative factor in Māori only, secondary education in non-Māori was protective, and obesity predicted better cognition over time for Māori. Diabetes was associated with decreased cognition for both Māori and non-Māori.

Conclusion: Our results begin to address gaps in the literature and increase understanding of disparities in dementia risk by ethnicity. These findings have implications for evaluating the type and application of culturally appropriate methods to improve cognition.