A new national study shows a concerning rise in the number of young adults reporting problems with memory, focus, and decision-making over the past decade. Conducted by a University of Utah research team, the findings reveal that cognitive difficulties are now spreading beyond older populations, pointing to deeper social and economic roots.
Analyzing survey data from 4.5 million adults, the team found that the overall proportion of US adults reporting serious cognitive disability grew from 5.3 percent in 2013 to 7.4 percent in 2023. Among people aged 18 to 39, the rate nearly doubled during this period, rising from 5.1 percent to 9.7 percent — the largest increase observed across any age group in the study.
Surprising Trends Among Older Adults
While many might assume aging populations are most affected, the study found that cognitive issues among people aged 70 and older actually declined slightly. Rates in this group fell from 7.3 percent to 6.6 percent between 2013 and 2023, suggesting that the surge in memory and concentration problems primarily affects younger generations.
Economic and Educational Disparities Widen the Gap
The research highlights how income and education levels influence cognitive health. Adults earning under 35,000 dollars annually, and those with lower educational attainment, reported sharper rises in memory and focus issues. These patterns emphasize that economic stress and limited access to health resources play a significant role in mental well-being.
Higher Rates Among Native and Minority Groups
The study further reports that American Indian and Alaska Native adults experienced the highest levels of cognitive disability, reflecting broader inequities in healthcare, living conditions, and community support. Nonetheless, cognitive difficulties rose across all racial and ethnic groups, revealing a nationwide trend beyond demographic boundaries.
Social Stress and Modern Lifestyles May Be Factors
Experts suggest that multiple social and psychological pressures could be driving this cognitive decline. Researchers point to post-pandemic stress, long working hours, digital dependency, and growing uncertainty about employment as key contributors. Additionally, better awareness and openness around mental health issues might be encouraging more people to self-report their struggles.
Self-Reported Symptoms Highlight a Public Health Priority
Although the study’s data are based on self-reported surveys rather than clinical evaluations, the pattern is too consistent to ignore. Researchers warn that these findings represent an emerging public health issue that could influence productivity, healthcare costs, and quality of life for generations.
Calls for Continued Research and Policy Intervention
The study’s lead author, Ka-Ho Wong, along with neurologist Dr. De Havenon, emphasizes the importance of understanding how structural and social factors drive these trends. They urge policymakers to address inequalities in education, income, and healthcare access. This is crucial to mitigate future risks of widespread cognitive decline among working-age Americans.
A Call to Protect Brain Health
The study was published in the journal Neurology. It adds to growing evidence that brain health issues are no longer confined to old age. Experts warn that cognitive resilience now demands proactive strategies. These strategies include social support systems, workplace reforms, and mental health awareness. They are essential to safeguard America’s evolving state of mind.