Protective Roles of Meditation and Self-Esteem on Cognitive Functions

This research article investigates the protective roles of meditation practice and self-esteem on cognitive functions over time, utilizing data from the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) study. The study examines whether persistent meditation practice or episodic practice is associated with better cognitive performance over a decade, specifically focusing on episodic memory and executive function. The analysis includes 2,168 individuals aged 65 years on average, controlling for various covariates such as socio-demographics and health status. Findings indicate that persistent meditation practice is linked to less decline in episodic memory, while self-esteem is associated with cognitive outcomes but does not mediate the relationship between meditation and cognitive functions. The article emphasizes the need for further exploration of the mechanisms underlying these associations, particularly in the context of aging and cognitive health. The study contributes to the understanding of non-pharmacological interventions for cognitive decline in middle-aged and older adults.