Abstract

Abstract Background: Dementia is an escalating global health challenge characterized by progressive cognitive decline and functional impairment. With the aging population increasing worldwide, preventive strategies have garnered substantial attention. Emerging evidence suggests that religious and spiritual engagement may confer neuroprotective effects, potentially reducing dementia risk through psychosocial and physiological mechanisms.

Objective: This study aims to investigate the role of religious practices—including worship, prayer, meditation, and community-based spiritual activities—in the prevention of dementia among older adults. Methods: A narrative review was conducted by analyzing peer-reviewed articles published between 2000 and 2024. Relevant studies were identified through comprehensive searches of PubMed, Scopus, and PsycINFO databases, focusing on investigations examining the relationship between religious or spiritual engagement and cognitive outcomes. Both quantitative and qualitative findings were synthesized, with consideration given to cultural and denominational diversity.

Results: The review revealed consistent associations between religious involvement and a reduced risk of cognitive decline. Engagement in religious activities correlated with lower stress levels, increased social interaction, improved emotional well-being, and enhanced cognitive stimulation. Neuroimaging studies indicate that regular spiritual practices may foster neural plasticity and delay hippocampal atrophy, thereby contributing to cognitive preservation.

Conclusion: Religious and spiritual practices may represent viable and culturally relevant components of comprehensive dementia prevention strategies. Incorporating these approaches into public health initiatives and geriatric mental health frameworks could improve preventive outcomes. Further longitudinal and interventional research is necessary to establish causal relationships and inform practical applications.

Keywords: Dementia prevention; religious engagement; spiritual health; cognitive aging; brain health; psychosocial factors; neuroprotection