Perceived discrimination and cognitive function among older Puerto Ricans in Boston: The mediating role of depression

Kaipeng Wang, Dale Dagar Maglalang, Bongki Woo, Carson M. De Fries, Leslie K. Hasche, Luis M. Falcón

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Objectives: To examine (1) the association between perceived discrimination, including everyday perceived discrimination and major lifetime perceived discrimination, and cognitive function and (2) the mediating role of depression between discrimination and cognitive function among older Puerto Ricans. Methods: Data came from the Boston Puerto Rican Health Study, collected from 562 Puerto Ricans aged 60+. Structural Equation Modelling was used to examine the association between discrimination and cognitive function and the mediating effect of depression. Results: Everyday perceived discrimination was negatively associated with cognitive function, which was fully mediated by depression. Major Lifetime perceived discrimination was not associated with cognitive function. Conclusions: The findings contribute new information regarding the impact of perceived discrimination on cognitive function among older Puerto Ricans and underscore the importance of assessing experiences of discrimination to prevent depression and cognitive decline in this population.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article numberGPS5717
JournalInternational Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry
Volume37
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - May 2022

Keywords

  • Puerto Ricans
  • cognitive function
  • depression
  • discrimination
  • minority aging

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Geriatrics and Gerontology
  • Psychiatry and Mental health

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