SNAP Participation Linked to Slower Cognitive Decline in Older Adults

New research presented at the 2025 Alzheimer's Association International Conference demonstrates that older adults participating in the U.S. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) experience significantly slower cognitive decline, maintaining up to two to three additional years of cognitive health over a decade compared to eligible non-participants. The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Georgia and involving over 2,000 adults aged 50 and older, highlights the role of food security and nutrition in promoting brain health and potentially delaying the onset of mild cognitive impairment and dementia. Experts emphasize that SNAP's provision of nutrient-rich foods helps reduce stress and chronic disease risks associated with food insecurity, which negatively impacts cognition. However, the findings come amid concerns over President Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which proposes the largest cuts to SNAP funding in its history, with the Congressional Budget Office estimating a $187 billion reduction over the next decade, potentially endangering the health of millions of low-income Americans. Public health officials and Democratic leaders warn that such cuts could exacerbate food insecurity and harm long-term health outcomes, underlining the importance of equitable access to food assistance programs for cognitive aging populations. While the study does not specify dietary details of participants, it underscores the public health significance of supporting basic needs like food access to improve brain health alongside medical approaches.