Multidimensional workplace stressors differentially impact cognitive trajectories.

INTRODUCTION

Little research has assessed detailed occupational exposures in relation to the dementia exposome. We characterized patterns of multidimensional workplace stressors in relation to cognitive trajectories and racial disparities.

METHODS

We included 704 participants from the Michigan Cognitive Aging Project (MageT1 = 63.32 ± 2.99). Main lifetime occupations were linked to 26 Occupational Information Network-measured workplace stressors. Latent profile analysis identified stressor profiles. Global cognition was measured with a comprehensive neuropsychological battery. Latent growth curve models assessed how stressor profiles related to cognitive trajectories. We examined racial differences in profile membership and profile-cognition associations.

RESULTS

Five profiles emerged. Black participants were more likely to show higher-stress profiles; this difference was explained by education. The profile with low job control/limited other stressors had the lowest initial cognition, especially among Black participants. The profile with high emotional labor/job demands had the fastest cognitive decline.

DISCUSSION: Workplace stress is a relevant, under-recognized aspect of the dementia exposome.