AGE AND SEX DIFFERENCES IN DEHYDROEPIANDROSTERONE SULFATE AMONG PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA AND CAREGIVERS

Sep 29, 2026

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Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), a key adrenal hormone with neuroprotective and anti-glucocorticoid properties, is examined for its role in dementia and caregiving. The study compared basal DHEAS levels and awakening responses between people with dementia (PWD) and family caregivers, focusing on age- and sex-specific patterns. Salivary samples were collected at awakening and 30 minutes later. Results revealed sex- and age-stratified differences: higher basal DHEAS in older females with dementia, a male crossover pattern around age 75, and the largest awakening-response differences in younger males.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryResearch & Report

FormatPDF

Pages1

Reading Time3 min

AccessFree to download

Abstract

DHEAS role in dementia and caregiving

Study design and sampling

Age- and sex-stratified results

Awakening response findings

Conclusion and implications

FAQs

What was the study trying to understand about DHEAS in dementia?

The study assessed whether salivary DHEAS levels and awakening responses differ between people with dementia and their family caregivers, considering age- and sex-specific patterns.

How were DHEAS measurements collected and analyzed?

Salivary samples were collected at awakening and 30 minutes post-awakening, followed by independent group comparisons and sex- and age-stratified analyses (<65, 65–75, >75), plus interaction modeling.

What were the main findings regarding sex and age differences?

Among females, PWD showed higher basal DHEAS than caregivers after age 65; among males, a crossover pattern emerged around age 75. Awakening-response differences were most pronounced in younger males, with lower responses in PWD versus caregivers.

Why might DHEAS be important for dementia care?

The findings suggest DHEAS profiles differ between PWD and caregivers and may function as a noninvasive biomarker of neuroendocrine function, informing stress regulation and potential intervention targets.

Sep 29, 2026

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