Cardiovascular risk factors are associated with lower posterior-medial network functional connectivity in older adults.

Cortico-hippocampal functional networks, specifically the anterior-temporal (AT) and posterior-medial (PM) systems, are crucial for memory and highly vulnerable to aging and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). While modifiable cardiovascular risk factors may offer prevention opportunities to preserve brain aging, their effects on AT/PM functional connectivity remain unknown. This study aims to investigate these associations in older adults, considering major risk categories and exploring potential interactions with protective lifestyle habits and AD risk factors.