Overview

• Research involving nearly 10,000 participants aged 65 and older found a strong association between fluctuating cholesterol levels and increased dementia risk.
• Those with the greatest variability in total and LDL cholesterol levels were 60% more likely to develop dementia compared to those with stable levels.
• Fluctuating cholesterol was linked to faster declines in memory, processing speed, and overall cognitive function, independent of baseline cholesterol levels.
• Possible mechanisms include damage to brain blood vessels or broader physiological instability in older adults, though causation was not proven.
• Experts recommend monitoring cholesterol changes in seniors and considering interventions, such as lifestyle adjustments or consistent statin use, to mitigate risk.