The associations of SNAP use and memory function among us older adults: Findings from the health and retirement study

Background Studies on the health effect of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) cognitive older adults are scarce. In this study, we examined associations SNAP use and memory function trajectories among US adults. Method Our sample included 3,555 SNAP-eligible participants (aged 50+) from 1996 Health Retirement Study survey, whom 559 were users 2,996 non-users. eligibility was constructed based household income assets compared to federal criterion. Memory assessed biennially through 2016. To account for pre-existing differences in characteristics variations survey attrition between non-users, modeled probability using pre-SNAP exposure (i.e., 1994) demographic covariates. We then across linear mixed models weighted by inverse treatment (i.e. use) attrition. also cross-examined results a propensity score (PS) matched (N = 1,050). Result had lower socioeconomic status worse at baseline than more likely be lost follow-up. Results IP-weights suggested scores but slower decline with non-users (annual rate is -0.038 standard units [95%CI -0.044, -0.033] -0.043 -0.046, -0.040] users). PS-matched showed declines -0.052 -0.055, -0.050] -0.048 -0.051, -0.046] Conclusion After accounting eligible as well differential loss follow-up, our findings that participation associated