As our population ages, dementia and general cognitive decline are raising economic, social, family and individual concerns.
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The iMAP study is investigating how our neighbourhood and other places we regularly visit interact with lifestyle to impact brain health and psychological function in middle to late adulthood.
Factors of interest in this study include:
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Exposure to noise and pollution
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Opportunities for physical, intellectual and social activities (e.g., parks, walkable footpaths, entertainment venues, community and local services)
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Exposure to green (trees, grass and plants) and blue (water) spaces
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The quality and size of social networks
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The iMAP study aims to develop recommendations for planning authorities and individuals for delaying cognitive decline and optimising cognitive health as people age. This study will involve adults aged 50 to 79 years living in different parts of Hong Kong and will be conducted during the period 2019 to 2022.
This international study is also being conducted in Melbourne (Australia) and Barcelona (Spain).
The iMAP study is an initiative of the International Cognitive Health & Environment Network (ICHEN). It is managed from the Mary Mackillop Institute for Health Research at the Australian Catholic University.
