Australian Rotary Health PhD scholar, Kayla Corney found maintaining a healthy lifestyle with social behaviours and managing both our physical and mental wellbeing, had a direct impact on cognitive health.

“Exposure to adverse childhood experiences (before the age of 18 years) was found to increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.”

After conducting a study with over 600 male participants, it showed the effects of depressive symptoms, and the use of psychotropic medication associated to reduced cognitive function.

“Good mental wellbeing, and a healthy lifestyle, including positive social interaction have been identified as potential opportunities for intervention in an attempt to remain cognitively healthy as we age.” Ms Corney has published her findings in the Frontiers of Ageing Neuroscience Journals.

In 2024, Kayla plans to investigate the correlation of psychosocial and lifestyle exposures impact the cognitive health of women without dementia. We look forward to hearing more about Ms.Corney’s research as it progresses.

The study was co-funded by Australian Rotary Health and the Bing Taylor PhD Scholarship (Rotary District 9675).

Media contact: [email protected]       First published 30th  May2023