Epidemiologist Suzanna Rör noted: "Up to 45% of dementia cases worldwide could be prevented if we could eliminate modifiable risk factors. However, many do not have the time to exercise, maintain a sleep schedule, eat properly, and sustain social connections."
The researchers termed this issue "time poverty," which acts as an invisible barrier to caring for brain health and reducing the risks of dementia. The fast pace of life, professional pressure, and caring for loved ones often rob people of the opportunity to prioritize their health.
According to the scientists, time inequality affects women and low-income individuals the most: women often bear the primary burden of caregiving, while low-income individuals are forced to work more or on unstable schedules.
Psychologist Simona Reppemund emphasized: "For many, especially vulnerable groups, finding time for self-care becomes nearly impossible. If we want to prevent dementia, we need to combat time poverty."
As a solution to the problem, the authors of the study suggest developing a system of public support, improving the availability of childcare, implementing flexible work arrangements such as a four-day work week, enhancing public transport infrastructure, and guaranteeing the right to "digital disconnection" during non-working hours.
Neuropsychiatrist Perminder Sachdeva believes that time should be viewed as a social resource, and governments should combat time inequality as actively as they do income inequality.
The researchers warn that without systemic measures, the number of dementia cases worldwide will only continue to rise, particularly affecting vulnerable population groups.
