Does the digital divide accelerate cognitive function decline related to the poor management of diabetes in later life?

Introduction: The objective is to investigate the role of digital exclusion in the association between diabetes and cognitive function among adults aged 50 and above.

Methods: 107,188 participants aged 50 years old and above across 31 countries from 2010-2018 were involved. The mixed-effects linear regression models were used to analyze the data.

Results: The presence of diabetes was found to be associated with a notable reduction in the global cognitive function score (unadjusted β=-0.27, 95% CI: -0.28, -0.25). The presence of digital exclusion was found to have a significant association with the decline in cognitive function scores related to diabetes. Similar trends were observed in the scores for memory, numeracy, and orientation.

Discussion: These findings underscore the importance of addressing the digital divide to promote healthy aging. Developing digital interventions targeting diabetes-related cognitive impairments and fostering digital inclusion among older adults with diabetes hold significant value in preventing cognitive impairment.