Psychological Science Faculty Publications

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

12-4-2025

Abstract

Objectives: The current study examined the relationship between social engagement and cognitive function among older Mexican heritage Latinos in the U.S. Although social engagement has been identified as a factor that is protective against cognitive decline and dementia, its association with cognitive health in Mexican heritage Latinos is understudied.

Methods: Data on cognitive health, social network characteristics, perceived social support, and social engagement were collected in a sample of older Mexican heritage Latinos in South Texas.

Results: Social network characteristics, perceived social support, and social engagement were significantly correlated with cognitive health. A hierarchical multiple regression analysis was used to test the relative strength of these factors in predicting cognitive health, while controlling for relevant covariates. Social engagement was found to be a significant predictor of cognitive function, beyond the effects of perceived social support and social network characteristics.

Conclusions: Findings highlight social engagement as a modifiable behavioral factor that may support cognitive health in aging Mexican heritage Latinos.

Clinical implications: The results suggest that screening for and enhancing social engagement may be a valuable clinical strategy for preserving cognitive function in older Latinos at risk of poor cognitive health outcomes.

Comments

Original published version available at https://doi.org/10.1080/07317115.2025.2596782

Publication Title

Clinical gerontologist

DOI

10.1080/07317115.2025.2596782

Download

Available for download on Friday, December 04, 2026

Included in

Psychology Commons

Share

COinS