Fear and avoidance of memory loss is associated with lower levels of psychosocial functioning and quality of life in older adults

Dementia is one of the most feared diseases associated with aging. Although some level of fear can motivate protective strategies, too much fear can be harmful and maladaptive. We examined fear and avoidance of memory loss and their relationship to psychosocial and lifestyle factors associated with dementia risk in a community‐dwelling sample of older adults.