Latinos Report Higher Rates of Cognitive Impairment than U.S.-Born Whites, But Rates Vary Between Latino Subgroups

Cognitive impairment is a major public health issue that affects older adults’ quality of life and independence. Among older adults, U.S. Latinos have higher rates of cognitive impairment than U.S.-born Whites. This brief describes differences in the prevalence and age patterns of self-reported cognitive impairment between Latinos aged 60 and older living in the U.S. and U.S.-born non-Latino Whites, and within Latino subgroups (U.S.-born Mexicans, foreign-born Mexicans, island-born Puerto Ricans, and foreign-born Cubans). Findings show higher rates of cognitive impairment among U.S. Latinos than among non-Latino Whites, with especially high rates among island-born Puerto Ricans and both U.S.- and foreign-born Mexicans. To address these disparities, policymakers and health care providers must advance culturally relevant programs and policies that promote healthy cognitive aging among older Latino subgroups.