Social factors influencing racial disparities in cognitive functioning in later life

Although a number of studies have found racial disparities in cognitive functioning and the prevalence of cognitive impairment among older adults in the United States and elsewhere, we know little about such disparities in Canada. Similarly, despite growing recognition of the important role that social factors play in influencing physical health outcomes, little is known regarding whether and how such factors influence non-physical health outcomes such as cognitive functioning. My research will address these gaps, examining racial disparities in cognitive functioning among older adults in Canada and the role of social factors in influencing them using CLSA dataset. The results will enhance our understanding of the social factors that influence cognitive functioning and contribute to policy and preventive strategies designed to address them.