It’s already known that people with greater sense of purpose are less likely to develop age-related dementias. A new study looks at the link between purpose and cognitive decline from the other direction, says FSU’s Angelina Sutin: Does cognitive impairment affect a person’s feeling of purpose?

The team analyzed data from two studies that together included more than 30,000 people. Although there was evidence of decline in feelings of purpose in the time leading up to cognitive impairment, the decrease sped up after diagnosis. “It is critically important for individuals to maintain their purpose in life to prevent or at least delay this apathy, which can reduce quality of life,” added Sutin.

• Angelina Sutin