Abstract
ObjectivesCognitive function is shaped by social network characteristics, but the geographic dispersion of social network ties remains understudied. We examine whether having a greater proportion of network ties residing outside of one's local area ("network extralocality") may benefit cognitive function among U.S. older adults.MethodsWe analyzed nationally representative data from the 2015-2016 National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project (N = 4,557) in multivariable regression models to examine associations between network extralocality and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scores among adults aged 50 and older.ResultsA full-range difference in network extralocality was significantly associated with a .48-point higher MoCA score after adjusting for covariates. A significant interaction between age and network extralocality revealed stronger associations at older ages.DiscussionSocial tie proximity may be an overlooked dimension of social life with cognitive implications. Place-based interventions may support independent aging-in-place by facilitating opportunities to form and maintain extralocal ties.