A long-term study found older adults with lower bone mineral density (BMD), especially in the hip area, had double the risk of developing dementia over the next decade. This link remained even after accounting for age, genetics, and health conditions.
Losing your keys and forgetting names are common signs of dementia. But your bone health may also give clues.
Why it matters
Identifying people at high risk of dementia earlier could improve screening and care.
Zoom in
Researchers used X-ray scans to measure participants’ BMD at the hip, spine, and total BMD.
- Low readings at the hip indicated higher dementia risk.
- The study followed over 3,600 older adults without dementia for up to 18 years.
- During the study, 19% of the participants were diagnosed with dementia, mostly Alzheimer's.
Zoom out
Bone loss is often associated with dementia, but this research suggests that bone problems may indicate memory decline even before symptoms emerge, potentially as much as several years in advance.
What’s next: More research on reducing bone loss and fractures may protect the brain and slow cognitive decline, unlocking the connection between bone and brain health.
"Take for example the bone-generated hormone osteocalcin that crosses the blood-brain-barrier and regulates brain functions like memory and cognition. Mice who don't express the osteocalcin gene or are injected with antibodies that block osteocalcin actually have poor memory and worse anxiety.” —Shaheen Lakham, MD, PhD, Chief Medical Officer, Click Therapeutics
The bottom line
This study reveals an intriguing link between declining bone and brain health, highlighting the practical value of maintaining strong bones for the health of your body and mind.
Good news
You can take action today to build bone density through weight-bearing exercise, calcium, vitamin D, and avoiding bone-damaging habits like smoking and heavy drinking.
"In any event, good bone health begins with heavy habits: a diet with plenty of calcium, vitamin D and protein; a regimen of not just cardio, but also weight-bearing exercises; and staying clear of smoking and heavy alcohol intake.” —Dr. Lakham
