Summary
Large longitudinal study found that low RMSSD and HF-HRV in midlife predicted faster cognitive decline—equivalent to 3-3.5 years of additional aging per decade—and 37% higher odds of low cognitive function at follow-up.
Methods
UK Whitehall II cohort longitudinal follow-up with cognitive testing
Key Findings
- Low RMSSD: cognitive decline 3 years faster per decade
- Low HF-HRV: cognitive decline 3.5 years faster per decade
- Low RMSSD: 37% higher odds of low cognitive function
- HRV in midlife predicts long-term cognitive trajectory
Limitations
Observational study, predominantly white-collar workers
What This Means for You
Protecting your HRV in midlife may help protect your brain as you age. The lifestyle factors that boost HRV—exercise, sleep, stress management—are the same ones linked to better cognitive aging.
Source
Read the original paper in Neurología ↗
Added to HRV Zone: 2026-01-23