It may come as a surprise, but there is a possible link between one’s personality during adolescence and the likelihood of developing dementia later in life.

Multiple studies suggest that neuroticism, conscientiousness, and extraversion are among the personality traits that can influence an individual’s risk of developing dementia.

Neuroticism

Neuroticism is a personality trait that is characterized by anxiety, depression, worry, and moodiness.

A study conducted by psychologists at the universities of Edinburgh and Aberdeen looked at data from over 600 participants and found that individuals with high levels of neuroticism in early adulthood were more likely to experience cognitive decline and have smaller brain volumes in later life, increasing their risk of developing dementia.

Conscientiousness

Conscientiousness refers to an individual’s tendency to be organized, disciplined, responsible, and persistent.

A study published in the journal Neurology examined the personalities of over 800 women aged 38-54 and found that those with higher levels of conscientiousness had a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease in later life.

Extraversion

Extraversion describes an individual’s sociable and outgoing nature.

A study published in Psychology and Aging examined the personalities of over 80 participants and found that those with high levels of extraversion had a higher cognitive reserve that could delay the onset or reduce the severity of cognitive decline.

Other Personality Traits

Other personality traits that have been linked to dementia risk include openness, agreeableness, and emotional stability.

Studies have found that having a higher level of openness, meaning having a greater interest in new experiences and ideas, may offset the risk of dementia. Moreover, individuals who exhibit high agreeableness and emotional stability may be less likely to develop dementia as these traits have been associated with lower levels of stress and anxiety.

So What Does This Mean?

It is important to remember that the link between personality and dementia is not yet fully understood and much more research is needed.

However, paying attention to one’s personality traits in adolescence may be an important factor in reducing the risk of developing dementia later in life. It is also important to note that personality can change over time and is not fixed.

Adopting habits that improve cognitive health, such as physical exercise, maintaining a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and engaging in mental stimulation, can also reduce the risk of developing dementia.

Conclusion

Although the correlation between adolescent personality and the risk of dementia remains relatively unknown, the research suggests that certain personality traits are linked to an increased or decreased risk of dementia later in life.

Practicing healthy habits and adopting a positive personality can help reduce the risk of dementia. Nonetheless, more research is needed to fully understand the link between personality and dementia, and how to prevent the onset of this disease.