A Comparative Analysis of Memory Loss and Cognitive Decline in the Workplace: U.S. vs. South Korea & Other Countries and the Role of HR

A Comparative Analysis of Memory Loss and Cognitive Decline in the Workplace: U.S. vs. South Korea & Other Countries and the Role of HR

JFL, 261A

HR strategies that incorporate cognitive health initiatives, inspired by successful models from South Korea, Europe, and Japan, can mitigate cognitive decline in the workplace and improve productivity among aging employees in the U.S. I aim to answer the research question: How do workplace health policies in South Korea, Europe, and Japan address cognitive decline, and what can the U.S. learn from them? This research explores how HR policies in these countries address cognitive decline in the workplace. By analyzing the effectiveness of workplace health initiatives, cognitive enrichment programs, and nutritional policies, this study aims to propose HR strategies that can be implemented in the U.S. to support aging employees and enhance workforce productivity.

With the U.S. workforce aging rapidly, cognitive decline presents a growing challenge. By 2032, adults aged 65 and older will make up 8.6% of the labor force, an increase from 6.6% in 2022 (BLS, 2024). Cognitive impairments such as dementia and Alzheimer's are expected to rise, reaching 12.7 million cases by 2050 (Alzheimer's Association, 2024). Research suggests that workplace complexity and social engagement can protect against cognitive decline (NIA, 2023), while excessive stress and poor nutrition contribute to its progression (Jansen et al., 2022). South Korea has emerged as a leader in workplace health management, integrating AI-driven telemedicine and wearable technology to monitor employees' cognitive health (South Korea Occupational Health Market Report, 2024). Additionally, South Korean firms provide nutritious workplace meals that contribute to cognitive well-being (Shin et al., 2022). European countries and Japan have also implemented corporate wellness programs that promote mental health and nutrition, demonstrating the financial benefits of investing in employee well-being (Promoting Health and Well-Being at Work, 2025). By comparing these international strategies with existing HR policies in the U.S., this research will explore the potential benefits of adopting similar models to enhance cognitive health in the American workplace.

This study will rely solely on a qualitative approach by reviewing articles and newsletters from reliable sources. Data will be gathered from government reports, corporate case studies, peer-reviewed literature, and industry publications to compare workplace policies addressing cognitive decline. The findings of this research will have several applications, including providing HR professionals with evidence-based recommendations for workplace cognitive health strategies, encouraging corporate investment in mental health initiatives, cognitive training, and nutrition programs, and informing policymakers on potential regulations to support aging employees. Future research should include longitudinal studies on workplace cognitive interventions, investigate the role of emerging technologies such as AI-driven cognitive assessments in HR strategies, and explore cultural factors influencing the adoption of cognitive health initiatives across different countries. By drawing from international best practices, this research aims to shape HR policies that foster a healthier, more productive aging workforce in the U.S.