Older Adults with Traumatic Brain Injuries Face Higher Dementia Risk

Recent research published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal highlights a significant link between traumatic brain injuries (TBI) in older adults and an increased risk of developing dementia. The study analyzed data from over 260,000 individuals aged 65 and above, tracked from 2004 to 2020, with follow-ups until 2021. It was found that experiencing a TBI, often resulting from falls—one of the most common and preventable causes—substantially raises the chances of being diagnosed with dementia later in life. Specifically, those with a recent TBI faced a 69% higher risk of dementia within the first five years after injury, and a 56% increased risk beyond that period. Additionally, these individuals required more days of publicly funded home care services.

Older age, female sex, living in low-income neighborhoods, and residing in smaller, less diverse communities were associated with higher risks of dementia and long-term care admissions post-TBI. Researchers emphasize the importance of fall prevention strategies to reduce TBI occurrence, which could, in turn, help lower dementia rates among older adults. The study underscores the need for targeted community-based programs and support services, especially for vulnerable populations such as women over 75 in low-income and low-diversity areas.

These findings are valuable for clinicians and families as they navigate long-term health risks associated with late-life TBI. They stress the importance of understanding how injuries sustained late in life can lead to significant neurological and functional decline, guiding better care and preventative measures.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-10-traumatic-brain-injuries-older-adults.html