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Abstract
Analysis of a nationally representative, longitudinal survey of community-dwelling Americans older than 50 years of age indicated that rating the physical condition of one's dwelling unit as “poor” predicted significantly more rapid cognitive decline in subsequent years. This relationship persisted after controlling for a variety of factors such as wealth, income, education, health, family status, neighborhood safety, depression, and initial cognitive ability. Dissatisfaction with the physical conditions of one's housing may have a direct effect on the rate of cognitive decline in older adults. Addressing housing inadequacy for older adults may thus produce a wider range of societal benefits than previously realized.