A groundbreaking study by neuroscientists from Sunway and Monash universities has revealed a connection between slow decision-making and advanced brain ageing in older Malaysians. The research highlights how cognitive decline could serve as a biomarker for pathological brain ageing, offering a potential tool for early detection in clinics.
Dr Aleya Marzuki, lead author and neuroscientist at Sunway University, explained, “Older Malaysians who tend to take their time when responding or making decisions, remarkably, also show signs of very advanced brain aging. For instance, someone who is 60 years old but demonstrates slow decision-making may have a brain that appears up to 10 years older.”
The study examined diverse older adults, including underserved communities, revealing that individuals facing lifelong socioeconomic disadvantages exhibited worse cognitive abilities. “Understanding why cognitive problems arise in the first place is key for prevention,” stated co-researcher Arjun Thanaraju of Sunway University.
Dr Samira Vafa, a co-researcher and lecturer at Sunway University, called for thoughtfully designed and widely accessible initiatives to support cognitive health, particularly for lower-income senior citizens. Echoing this, Dr Chan Jee Kei, a psychological researcher at Monash University, emphasised addressing social and educational disparities before individuals reach old age.
With Malaysia’s ageing population projected to reach 23.4% by 2050, prioritising prevention and systemic change is crucial for fostering cognitive health and well-being among senior citizens.
