Impact of cognitive reserve on stress, affect, and general mental health in the rural population of Rajasthan – A cross-sectional study
Nishka A. Mehta, Poonam Joshi, Shiv Gautam, Jagdish PrasadABSTRACT
Background:
Cognitive reserve (CR) refers to the accumulation of cognitive capacities developed over a lifetime through one’s life experiences.
Aim:
To examine the impact of CR on perceived stress, negative affect, and general mental health in the rural population in Rajasthan.
Methods:
A total of 158 rural adults (aged 20–60 years) from Rajasthan (India) formed the sample. Cognitive impairment was screened using the Hindi Mini-Mental Status Examination (HVMMSE). Cognitive Reserve Index questionnaire (CRIq), Perceived Stress Scale-10 (PSS-10), Positive and Negative Affect Scale (PANAS), and General Health Questionnaire-12 (GHQ-12) were used to assess the variables.
Results:
The findings revealed a negative correlation between CR and adverse mental health outcomes (lower perceived stress, reduced negative affect, and better mental health). However, the effect size of CR on these variables was modest.
Conclusion:
The study highlights the protective role of CR against stress, negative affect, and poor mental health while underscoring gender-based disparities in CR.