• Abstract

    This study investigates the psychosocial determinants influencing cognitive health in the elderly within Vietnam’s rapidly transforming socio-cultural context. Utilizing data collected from 200 older adults and applying multivariate linear regression analysis, the research identifies four critical factors—social engagement, mental health, physical activity and lifestyle, and cognitive stimulation—as significant contributors to cognitive well-being. Social engagement enhances cognitive resilience by fostering emotional support, reducing loneliness, and encouraging interpersonal interaction, which is essential for maintaining neural plasticity. Mental health, encompassing emotional and psychological stability, mitigates neurobiological risks associated with anxiety, depression, and inflammation, thus preserving executive function and memory. Concurrently, physical activity and a healthy lifestyle—including regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep—support brain function, reduce the incidence of chronic diseases, and strengthen cognitive performance. Cognitive stimulation, through activities such as reading, learning, and problem-solving, is crucial in reinforcing cognitive reserve and delaying neurodegeneration. The findings underscore the interdependence of these psychosocial factors and their collective impact on cognitive health, offering a holistic understanding of healthy aging. Situated within Vietnam’s unique cultural setting, where traditional values intersect with rapid modernization, this study fills a critical gap in the literature by providing localized insights into aging and cognitive function. The research highlights the importance of culturally tailored, multidimensional strategies that integrate traditional practices and modern interventions to enhance elderly care. These insights are valuable for healthcare practitioners, policymakers, and community leaders aiming to design inclusive programs that promote resilience, independence, and well-being among older adults. Ultimately, this study contributes to the global discourse on aging by offering a context-sensitive framework for supporting cognitive health in aging societies.

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Binh, P. T., & Nghi, T. N. (2025). Exploring the psychosocial determinants of cognitive health in the elderly: An exploratory factor analysis approach. Multidisciplinary Reviews, 8(11), 2025361. https://doi.org/10.31893/multirev.2025361
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