Do statins cause dementia?

Statins and dementia

There are many suspected causes of dementia, and past research has suggested a potential link between this cognitive condition and the use of a particular medication called statins. Here, we are exploring what statins are, why people might need them, their potential links to dementia, the most common cognitive side effects of statins, and the risk factors older adults should consider. We will also look at how doctors and their patients may balance the benefits and risks of statins, the guidelines for safe use, when to seek medical advice, and the resources that may be available to older people considering statins. 

At Home Instead, our aim is to help people age positively and in place by bringing expert care to their home. For nearly 20 years, we have been providing the highest standard of care, and creating industry-leading training programmes for our Care Professionals that are accredited by nursing and medical professionals. Today, we are the world’s largest global domiciliary care network, supporting over 100,000 older adults with personalised, tailored care at home. So whatever questions you have about older people taking statins, we can help.

Is there a link between statins and dementia? 

Researchers have long suspected a connection between statin use and dementia, with some studies suggesting that taking statins could lower dementia risk, though the results have been inconclusive over the years. 

The theory behind this link is that cholesterol is needed in the brain for healthy brain cells, but it is believed that cholesterol from the blood cannot enter the brain, and the brain makes its own cholesterol.

One study published in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry found that people with a healthy level of LDL cholesterol who were taking statins were 13% less likely to have dementia, and 12% less likely to have Alzheimer’s compared to those with the same level of LDL not on statins. People with a high level of LDL cholesterol who were on statins had a 7% lower dementia risk and 10% lower Alzheimer’s risk compared to those not on statins. There was no change to those with low levels of LDL. The results seemed promising, but the researchers mentioned that while the observational study shows possible links, it does not show cause and effect.

Further studies on statins and their effect on cognitive health reveal inconsistent findings. Those with high cholesterol levels tend to have other existing conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or obesity, so it seems more likely that statins can have a positive effect by reducing these risk factors associated with dementia. However, statins also appear to affect various types of dementia differently, and there are different types of statins–such as lipophilic and hydrophilic–that have contrasting effects on the body as they enter cells at varying rates. 

The Alzheimer’s Society suggests that taking statins later in life to reduce dementia risk is thought to have no effect, but sustained use of statins over years could provide heart and blood vessel benefits that may indirectly impact dementia risk. More recent findings on this topic from 2025 looked at 55 studies involving over 7 million patients, and found a significant reduction in dementia risk, including for Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia.

What are the other risk factors and benefits of taking statins? 

Statins can have additional risk factors for those who are more likely to develop myopathy, a side effect where muscle tissues become damaged. This can lead to kidney damage in extreme cases. You are at an increased risk of this if you:

• Are over 70 years old
• Have a history of liver disease
• Drink a lot of alcohol regularly 
• Have a history of muscle-related side effects when taking certain medications
• Have a family history of myopathy or rhabdomyolysis

People who take statins also have a 10-35% increased risk for developing diabetes, as it can affect the body’s ability to regulate insulin, causing blood sugar to rise. This tends to happen mostly with those who are managing obesity or prediabetes, and already at risk of developing diabetes as a result. 

Statins can also interact negatively with certain other medications, including:

• Certain antibiotics and antifungals
• Some HIV medications
• Warfarin (a blood thinner)
• Ciclosporin (suppresses the immune system)
• Danazol (a synthetic hormone medication)
• Verapamil and diltiazem (calcium channel blockers)
• Amiodarone (used to treat arrhythmia)
• Fibrates (reduce cholesterol levels)

If your doctor is considering prescribing statins, the decision will rarely come down to your cholesterol levels alone; often they will look at your risk of having a heart attack or stroke by considering your age, sex, if you have diabetes, high blood pressure or liver disease, and if you smoke. Due to the many variables that could impact statin use, they will also weigh up the risks of starting this medication by reviewing your current medications, medical history, lifestyle factors and individual circumstances. You will likely be asked back for regular blood tests and follow-up appointments to ensure the statins are continuing to be effective and safe. Often the cardiovascular benefits outweigh the potential temporary side effects, but by regularly reviewing the dose and monitoring any changes, you can ensure any issues are identified and managed appropriately.

How can older adults take statins safely? 

There are many myths associated with taking statins, including the risk of dementia, diabetes, or even cataracts. Much of the evidence for this is based on inconclusive studies, and as mentioned, the cardiovascular benefits of taking statins will likely outweigh many of the potential side effects. Knowing how to take statins safely helps to reduce the likelihood of issues. This means:

• Ensuring you have a blood test done before starting statins, and periodically while on them – this helps to monitor your liver function, cholesterol levels, and kidney health
• Having your doctor review your other medications to avoid potentially harmful interactions
• Making sure you are attending regular check-ups with your GP so they can monitor your overall response to statins 
• Monitoring your cognitive function to recognise any new memory changes, confusion, or difficulty concentrating – it may also help to ask a family member or caregiver to watch out for any changes in case you are unable to recognise them yourself 
• Eating a balanced diet and staying physically active to maintain your overall health and healthy cholesterol levels 
• Managing any other health conditions effectively, such as diabetes or high blood pressure

With careful monitoring, healthy lifestyle measures, and regular communication with your GP, you can benefit from cardiovascular protection from statins while also minimising potential risks.

When should older people seek medical advice for statins?

Older people taking statins should be aware of the signs to watch out for that could indicate potential problems, and seek prompt medical advice if these occur. Signs to watch out for include: 

• Sudden or progressive memory loss
• Confusion
• Difficulty concentrating
• Neurological symptoms like muscle weakness, numbness, dizziness, or fatigue
• Muscle pain 
• Mood changes

Mild cognitive changes are uncommon with statins, and are often reversible if they do occur, but if you notice persistent or worsening cognitive symptoms, it is important to address these promptly. Speak to your GP about any new issues, or your pharmacist for any questions you have about statins. Report any symptoms early, and don’t be afraid to do so – often, your doctor will simply adjust your dose.

What resources are available for older adults on statins?

Older people beginning to take statins may understandably have questions or concerns about the potential side effects of taking this kind of medication. Thankfully, there are many sources of information in the UK to help make this transition easier. For example: 

• The NHS has key advice on taking statins, why they may be helpful, and how to take them safely with doctor supervision 
• Age UK has information on exercise for older adults, and eating healthily, which can support your health and reduce cholesterol 
• Dementia UK has information about dementia and how to get tested for this if you are worried your cognitive symptoms are related
• The British Heart Foundation has lots of helpful information on high cholesterol, high blood pressure, statins, and other related topics 
• Changing your diet is often recommended alongside statins to lower cholesterol, and Heart Research UK has a page dedicated to heart-friendly recipes 
• Your local council can offer a Care Needs Assessment to connect you to the right adult social care worker who can help you navigate potential side effects of statins 
• Professional home care services can provide support that could be useful while you get used to taking statins, including medication management, or help with specific accompanying issues like diabetes

How can home care support older people taking statins? 

Managing high cholesterol, heart conditions, new medications, or suspected dementia can be overwhelming for older people, particularly if they live alone with no support. Having either visiting home care or live-in home care can help in a number of ways, including:

• Observing any changes the older person may not notice, such as memory loss, mood shifts, or behaviour changes 
• Promptly reporting concerns to their GP 
• Helping with medication management while getting used to their statin schedule 
• Assisting with daily activities if needed, such as safe personal care or housekeeping
• Organising healthy meal preparation and cooking if a certain diet has been prescribed 
• Supporting their overall wellbeing and mental health through reassurance if they are worried about potential side effects 
• Providing specialist care for health conditions like diabetes or dementia 

At Home Instead, our Care Professionals offer knowledgeable care for those managing health conditions or monitoring side effects after a medication change. We take great care to match clients with a caregiver who will complement their personality and interests, and who has experience with their specific care needs, so you can always feel comfortable in the company of your caregiver, and confident in their skillset.   

We’re an award-winning home care provider and part of a worldwide organisation devoted to providing the highest-quality relationship-led care for older people in their own homes. Arranging care for yourself or your loved one shouldn’t be stressful, so whatever questions you would like answered, feel free to reach out to the Home Instead team to discuss your needs.