Scientists identify “time poverty” as a very relevant risk factor for diseases such as Alzheimer’s.
A new study suggests that a lack of time, or “time poverty”may be a risk factor for dementia as relevant as diet and physical exercise.
The research, in The Lancet Healthy Longevity, analyzed data from epidemiology, neurology and time use studies. The results indicate that the individuals studied who are unable to dedicate enough time to self-care are more likely to develop dementia compared to those who have time to take care of their health.
Evidence suggests that there is a need at least 10 hours a day for activities essential to brain healthincluding sleep, meals, physical activity and social interaction, according to the study co-author, Simone Reppermund, cited in from the University of New South Wales.
The study builds on risk factors previously identified by the Lancet Commission in 2024, which included variables such as lower level of education in childhood, hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, physical inactivity and limited social interaction. The researchers emphasize that a common thread that connects many of these risks is precisely the tempo.
Healthy behaviors require temporal resources: time to prepare nutritious meals, to exercise the body and to maintain social relationships. Without sufficient time, the effectiveness of traditional public health recommendations may be limited.
The researchers warn that interventions focused only on individual behavior may not help those facing greater time constraints. THE digital overload It has also been identified as a modern contributor to time poverty.
To face these challenges, the group advocates reforms in labor and health policies, promoting “temporal justice”which involves measuring and redistributing time more equitably. Possible measures include investments in public transport to reduce travel times, more flexible working hours, right-to-disconnect policies and accessible childcare services.
