A Sociological Exploration of Stress and Its Impact on Alzheimer’s Disease
- Jul 5, 2025
- 11 min read
Author: Evelyn Fistler
Editor: Morgann MacDonald
Introduction—What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Think of this: the aging population in the United States of America is rapidly growing. The elderly individuals in our lives could be susceptible to the development of neurological diseases, yet society still lacks definitive ways to prevent and cure forms of dementia, especially Alzheimer's.
So, what exactly is Alzheimer's Disease? It’s the most common form of dementia— a progressive and degenerative condition that damages the brain, typically in individuals aged 65 and older. Over time, it impairs both cognitive and, eventually, physical functioning.
But why does this happen? The primary biological drivers of Alzheimer’s are the buildup of Tau proteins–which form neurofibrillary tangles inside neurons, much like hair clogging a drain–and amyloid plaques which accumulate on the outside of neurons in the brain. These abnormalities disrupt cognitive abilities such as memory, language, and reasoning (Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease, 2024).
And how does this happen? The exact cause of Alzheimer's disease remains unknown, and there is currently no known cure. However, a variety of risk factors–including social experiences, environmental exposures, genetics, and even influences of culture–are known to have an impact on the disease’s progression. This article offers a brief overview of Alzheimer's development and progression, exploring how aging and risk factors such as induced stress have an impact, through a sociological lens.
The Aging Population
Stress is a typical part of life, and the intensity often shifts in response to societal, environmental, and socioeconomic conditions. When considering the development of a neurological disease, stress is a key factor in analyzing and understanding the broader social issues that may elevate risks. By examining these stressors more closely, we can better assess the impact on the quality of life for older adults.
A major concern is the growing lack of accessible and affordable healthcare within communities—an issue closely tied to socioeconomic status and social support systems. These challenges are increasingly prominent due to the increasing elderly population. In fact, the number of people aged 65 and older in the US is estimated to increase by about 47% from 2022 to 2050 (Fact Sheet: Aging in the United States, n.d.).
Given Alzheimer's usually affects those aged 65 years and older, it’s important to consider how both social and environmental stressors correlate with the onset and progression of the disease when going over demographics for those typically vulnerable. By 2050, it’s estimated that around 13.8 million people will be living with Alzheimer’s in the US, with 7 million of those aged 85 and older (Hebert, 2013).
Factors such as health insurance eligibility, access to caregiving and support, fear of social isolation, environmental conditions, and place of residence are all areas where prolonged stress may occur. Exploring how stress impacts cognition and contributes to the development of Alzheimer's may lead to preventive strategies that improve the quality of life for aging individuals.
Exploration of Alzheimer’s
Many sociological factors may contribute to the development and progression of Alzheimer’s disease, making them crucial areas for continued research. Sociology allows us to examine different communities within society where aspects such as race, sexual orientation, and gender identity are valuable to study due to discrimination, disparities, biological processes, and underlying factors. Neuropsychological studies of mental health and individual stressors can introduce new variables for reflection and future research. By understanding these influences, we can better recognize patterns that may contribute to the disease's development.
Sociological Contributions
Through the analysis of society and the many biological variables that contribute to the development of Alzheimer's, we can begin to identify potential strategies to reduce risk. Sociological challenges that especially affect elders–such as isolation, stigma, socioeconomic status, social experience, and support–can have an impact on stress levels, which may influence the progression of the disease.
Ageism and other such harmful stereotypes, reinforced within some communities, can also impact their quality of life. It may lead to emotional distress and anxiety, which may in turn contribute to increased cellular stress and deteriorating health issues.
A study on positive self-perceptions and aging found that individuals with more positive self-views of aging tend to have better life quality, while those with negative perceptions of the self are more likely to experience cardiovascular issues, as well as neurofibrillary tangles and plaque within the brain that cause diseases such as dementia (Helio J, et al, 2024). This research highlights the importance of recognizing the impact of societal factors like discrimination and ageism and how they may alter perceptions of the self. Caregivers or institutions that many older individuals rely on may not provide the resources needed to ensure the best quality of life.
Another study conducted in China examined the activity in older participants in association with depression changes and found that increased physical activity improves both physical and cognitive aspects of individuals (Gao, et al, 2023). Returning to the idea of self-perception, regular physical activity, and social participation from aging individuals may contribute to a more positive self-perception that improves their health outcomes as they get older. Consistent activity and better quality of life lead to reduced stress and anxiety, thus positively affecting cognition, while isolation and negative self-perception due to decreased activity do the opposite
When analyzing Alzheimer’s by demographic groupings, racial and ethnic disparities are notable to mention as Black and Hispanic Americans face a higher incidence of dementia than White Americans. Socioeconomic and educational status, as well as healthcare accessibility, potentially play a role in this disparity. A study based on self-reported experiences of discrimination and newly diagnosed cases of dementia shows that lifetime discrimination exposure was associated with a higher risk of dementia. It also suggests that discrimination in healthcare facilities may contribute to underdiagnosed early cognitive impairment, or the delay in care received (Bancks, et al, 2023).
Given the wide range of potential contributors to the disease, a deeper analysis of each risk factor down to the root could be key when it comes to treating the disease. Sociological inquiry allows us to discuss the more vulnerable populations with given demographics with Alzheimer’s. Lifestyle choices and prior cognition–such altering experiences could shape long-term brain health and daily functioning in older age.
Psychological Factors
On a psychological level, factors such as mental health, cognitive testing, and accurate diagnoses may contribute to how Alzheimer’s is viewed. Symptoms that overlap with other mental disorders require careful investigation. Misdiagnosis, diagnostic bias, and behavioral changes–like emotional instability or altered coping mechanisms–are all relevant considerations. Indicated psychological symptoms can appear before the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s: 72% of patients experience depression, mood changes, social withdrawal, and suicidal thoughts two years before the diagnosis; 45% of patients develop hallucinations, paranoia, and delusions in less than a month following diagnosis; 21% exhibit irritability, agitation and aggressive behavior within a year following the diagnosis (Beata, et al, 2023).
A study on psychological distress in elderly individuals measured their resilience to contributing factors of Alzheimer’s, determined by their socioeconomic and educational status. The research showed that those with higher education and a higher-than-average income had lower psychological distress than those who did not. Lower incomes and less education were also associated with poorer lifestyle choices and worse levels of mental health. In addition, their resilience (particularly their self-perceived ability to withstand ageism) was linked to better mental health. However, loneliness remains a persisting factor that negatively affects the quality of life for elders (José Alberto Ribeiro-Gonçalves, et al, 2023).
It is essential to consider the elements that contribute to increased stress, as there is an increased risk for neurological issues and potentially dementia-related diseases. Chronic stress increases cognitive impairment and is prevalent in disorders such as depression (Wallensten, et al, 2023). Individuals facing social bias–whether due to age, gender identity, sexual orientation, or xenophobia–are especially vulnerable to chronic stress and its long-term impacts on brain health (Adkins-Jackson, et al, 2023).
Biological Analysis of Stress
Rat models used to study the relationship between stress and Alzheimer's disease demonstrate a complex relationship. While Stress may not be a direct cause of the disease, increased levels show a detrimental impact on neuron functionality, pushing the neurons closer to death and accelerating the progression of Alzheimer's pathogenesis. Increased production of amyloid plaque and Tau protein–both of which disrupt cognitive function–is a hallmark of the disease, However, these biological markers alone do not fully explain how stress can impact Alzheimer’s disease, leaving room for the hypothesis that stress itself accelerates the progression of Alzheimer’s disease in humans (Justice, 2018).
Research also highlights the link between loneliness and the development of Alzheimer’s. In a ten-year study, it was shown that isolation was associated with the early stages of Alzheimer's neuropathogenesis. For lonely adults aged 80 and older without the APOE ε4 allele (the strongest known genetic risk factor for Alzheimer’s), the risks tripled. Loneliness was associated with poorer executive function, lower total cerebral volume (the measurement used for cognitive decline), and greater volume of white matter hyperintensities. This suggests that loneliness, particularly in middle-aged and young-old APOE ε4–negative adults in the early development of Alzheimer’s, may be a modifiable social and psychological risk factor. At the same time, brain atrophy and consequent cognitive decline in younger individuals point to additional biological vulnerabilities (Salinas et al., 2022).
Furthermore, oxidative stress–an imbalance of free radicals (reactive oxygen) and antioxidant defenses that help maintain homeostasis and cellular processes–also contributed to Alzheimer’s risk. This imbalance can be triggered by many factors, such as lifestyle choices, environmental and social exposures, and certain medical conditions. Without the antioxidants that neutralize the free radicals, unstable molecules damage cells, including neurons. Oxidative stress is linked to neuroinflammation, synaptic plasticity, serotonin, and mitochondrial dysfunction–all of which are associated with a heightened risk of depression(Correia, et al, 2023).
Because stress is such a crucial risk factor, identifying its sources may narrow down other potential causes of Alzheimer's disease. Depression is often accompanied by high cortisol levels, which are also commonly associated with an increased risk for Alzheimer's disease. With elevated cortisol levels, cognitive decline occurs faster, disrupting brain function (Ouanes & Popp, 2019). Cortisol also promotes protein aggregation and induces oxidative stress, further damaging neurons and therefore inhibiting cognitive functioning like reasoning, language, memory, and learning (Signorello, et al, 2024).
Further biological analysis of the consequences of stress links chronic stress with higher levels of plasma T-Tau, a prevalent biomarker for neurodegeneration. Longstanding stress during midlife was similarly associated with higher levels of Tau in cerebrospinal fluid. Notably, this association does not differ significantly by race or gender. Social support is also suggested to promote better health and reduce the risk-related biological response, lowering the probability of neurodegeneration (Lee, et al, 2025).
Public Health and Research—What Next?
Improving healthcare for older adults is essential, particularly as age increases vulnerability and risk. Understanding the socioeconomic factors that affect healthcare access is critical for addressing disparities in elder health One unsolved major challenge is the unfair and unequal distribution of medical resources (Jones, et al, 2024).
Public health efforts within communities must prioritize prevention, early detection, and diagnosis, as well as promoting brain health and support from caregivers. Early preventative measures such as lowering blood pressure, maintaining a healthy diet, and consistently exercising are among the most effective lifestyle changes recommended (The Public Health Approach | Alzheimer’s Association, n.d.).
By 2060, over 13 million people are projected to have dementia-related diseases, underscoring the urgency of funding and support from agencies (Federal Commitment to Addressing Alzheimer’s and Related Dementia, 2024). Federal funding for research and agencies’ efforts to disperse care and support institutions while still promoting public awareness is an efficient way to reach groundbreaking research on a macro level. For example, the Administration for Community Living focuses on funding for both individuals living with dementia and their caregivers. Their promotion of community-based programs is another particularly beneficial achievement. Thanks to administrations such as this, more funding can be provided for dementia-care services and research, allowing more accessible and improved healthcare for elders.
Preventions—What Can Be Done?
As research on Alzheimer’s continues to explore the role of lifestyle and environmental factors, several modifiable habits have been shown to significantly reduce risk. Individuals who have limited their alcohol intake, avoided cigarette use, pursued a suitable diet, engaged in moderate to intensive physical activities, and committed to cognitive activities, have a 60% lower risk for Alzheimer’s in comparison to those who followed two of the listed factors–whose risk has been reduced by only 37% (Advances in Aging and Alzheimer's Research, 2025).
These findings raise further questions on how lifestyle, social engagement, and stress, such as social interactions, childhood experiences, and traumatic issues could potentially impact cognition later in life. The aforementioned stress levels and mental health should be taken into consideration to prevent worsened overall cognition and reduce the risk of developing a dementia-related disease.
Conclusion—Why Does This Matter?
Understanding the biological and societal impacts of Alzheimer’s is crucial as the aging population continues to grow. Awareness on the subject could bring forth more information that could be beneficial for research. Think of the older adults in your life who are facing daily struggles—whether they are cognitively impaired or suffering from other disorders that affect their ability to spend time with family and friends. Continued investment in research allows for new paths to be sought and discovered, providing new and valuable learning opportunities. By educating the general public, we encourage healthier lifestyles, reduce risk factors, and promote stronger support systems for aging individuals. Ultimately, greater awareness empowers caregivers, strengthens communities, and enhances the quality of life for those most vulnerable.
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