A case-control study examining the association between service-related mental ill-health and dementia in male military veterans over the age of 65
Abstract: Dementia is currently incurable, irreversible and a major cause of disability for the world’s older population. The identification, and early intervention of modifiable risk factors, is therefore of increasing global priority. Prior scientific studies have suggested numerous risk factors which increase the chance of developing dementia, a number of which are suggested to occur at a greater frequency within military and military veteran personnel. One such risk factor is service-related mental ill health. This project aimed to determine whether service-related mental ill-health increases the risk that male military veterans have of developing dementia. The study compared the prevalence of service-related mental ill-health in male military veterans with dementia with those without dementia.
Abstract: The unique demands of military life can adversely impact romantic relationships; however, research has mainly focused on these adverse outcomes at one-time point, overlooking changes over time or potential positive outcomes. Using a subsample of 3,845 male and female military personnel and veterans from a large UK dataset, this study examined positive and negative changes in relationship satisfaction between two-time points (2007–2009; 2014–2016). Most participants reported no change in their relationship satisfaction, suggesting stability − 8% reported a positive change and 10% a negative change. Positive change was associated with being in a long-term relationship, alcohol misuse remission, and persistent alcohol misuse. Negative change was associated with the onset of mental health problems (probable PTSD, CMD, or alcohol misuse) and having children under 18. Some factors, like increasing age, childhood family relationship adversity, and mental health problems, were associated with both positive and negative changes in relationship satisfaction. This study highlights the complexity of factors associated with relationship satisfaction among military personnel and veterans, with some experiencing positive changes, as well as negative changes over time.