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Rhodes E, Alfa S, Jin HA, Massimo L, Elman L, Amado D, Baer M, Quinn C, McMillan CT. Cognitive reserve in ALS: the role of occupational skills and requirements. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2024; 25:486-495. [PMID: 38591193 PMCID: PMC11269020 DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2024.2336113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a heterogeneous neurodegenerative condition featuring variable degrees of motor and cognitive impairment. We assessed the impact of specific, empirically derived occupational skills and requirements on cognitive and motor functioning in ALS. METHODS Individuals with ALS (n = 150) were recruited from the University of Pennsylvania's Comprehensive ALS Clinic. The Edinburgh Cognitive and Behavioral ALS Screen (ECAS) measured cognition, and the Penn Upper Motor Neuron (PUMNS) and ALS Functional Rating Scales (ALSFRS-R) measured motor symptoms. We derived 17 factors representing distinct occupational skills and requirements from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET), which were related to cognitive and motor scores using multiple linear regression. RESULTS Occupational roles involving greater reasoning ability (β = 2.12, p < .05), social ability (β = 1.73, p < .05), analytic skills, (β = 3.12, p < .01) and humanities knowledge (β = 1.83, p<.01) were associated with better performance on the ECAS, while jobs involving more exposure to environmental hazards (β=-2.57, p < .01) and technical skills (β=-2.16, p<.01) were associated with lower ECAS scores. Jobs requiring more precision skills (β = 1.91, p < .05) were associated with greater motor dysfunction on the PUMNS. CONCLUSIONS Occupational histories involving more cognitively complex skills and activities were related to preserved cognitive functioning in ALS consistent with the cognitive reserve hypothesis, while jobs with greater exposure to environmental hazards and technical demands were linked to poorer cognitive functioning. Jobs involving more repetitive movements were associated with worse motor functioning, possibly due to overuse. Occupational history provides insight into protective and risk factors for variable degrees of cognitive and motor dysfunction in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Rhodes
- University of Pennsylvania Frontotemporal Degeneration Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Sebleh Alfa
- University of Pennsylvania Frontotemporal Degeneration Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Hannah A. Jin
- University of Pennsylvania Frontotemporal Degeneration Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Lauren Massimo
- University of Pennsylvania Frontotemporal Degeneration Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Lauren Elman
- University of Pennsylvania Comprehensive ALS Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Defne Amado
- University of Pennsylvania Comprehensive ALS Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Michael Baer
- University of Pennsylvania Comprehensive ALS Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Colin Quinn
- University of Pennsylvania Comprehensive ALS Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Corey T. McMillan
- University of Pennsylvania Frontotemporal Degeneration Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Doyle C, Andel R, Saenz J, Crowe M. Correlates of SuperAging in Two Population-Based Samples of Hispanic Older Adults. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2024; 79:gbae058. [PMID: 38581241 PMCID: PMC11075730 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbae058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES "SuperAgers" are generally defined as people 80+ years old with episodic memory performance comparable to those 20 years younger. Limited knowledge exists to describe characteristics of SuperAgers, with even less known about Hispanic SuperAgers. METHODS We examined indicators of cognitive, physical, and psychological resilience in relation to the likelihood of being a SuperAger using data from 2 population-based studies of Hispanic older adults (Puerto Rican Elderly: Health Conditions [PREHCO] Study; Health and Retirement Study [HRS]). SuperAgers were defined as (1) ≥80 years old, (2) recall scores ≥ the median for Hispanic respondents aged 55-64, and (3) no cognitive impairment during the observation period. Overall, 640 PREHCO participants and 180 HRS participants were eligible, of whom 45 (7%) and 31 (17%) met SuperAging criteria. RESULTS Logistic regressions controlling for age and sex demonstrated that higher education (PREHCO: odds ratio [OR] = 1.20, p < .001; HRS: OR = 1.14, p = .044) and fewer instrumental activities of daily living limitations (PREHCO: OR = 0.79, p = .019; HRS: OR = 0.58, p = .077; cognitive resilience), fewer activities of daily living limitations (PREHCO: OR = 0.72, p = .031; HRS: OR = 0.67, p = .068; physical resilience), and fewer depressive symptoms (PREHCO: OR = 0.84, p = .015; HRS: OR = 0.69, p = .007; psychological resilience) were associated with SuperAging, although not all results reached threshold for statistical significance, presumably due to low statistical power. Additionally, known indicators of physical health (e.g., chronic conditions and self-rated health) did not relate to SuperAging. DISCUSSION Increasing access to education and recognizing/treating depressive symptoms represent potential pathways to preserve episodic memory among older Hispanic adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassidy Doyle
- School of Aging Studies, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Ross Andel
- Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, Arizona State University, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
- Memory Clinic, Department of Neurology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Joseph Saenz
- Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, Arizona State University, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
| | - Michael Crowe
- Department of Psychology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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Steffener J, Nicholls J, Farghal S, Franklin D. The Beneficial, Formative Role of Lifetime Exposures across Cognitive Domains in Barbados Using Data from the SABE Study. Can J Aging 2024:1-11. [PMID: 38801134 DOI: 10.1017/s0714980824000242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
This study tested the hypothesis that within older Barbadian adults, sex, education, and occupation type lessen age-related cognitive decline. The analyses used a cross-sectional data set from 1325 people collected in the 2006 SABE Study (Health, Well-being, and Aging). Cognition was assessed as scores in each subdomain of the Mini-Mental State Exam. The loss of a single point in each subdomain was predicted by sex, years of education, job type, and their interactions with age. Results demonstrated that age and protective factors affect each cognitive domain differently. High education combined with mentally complex employment helped maintain cognitive performance in later life. Beneficial lifetime exposures are additive, providing combined benefits. Findings provide insight into public policy aiming to minimize the number of adults with cognitive decline and dementia in Barbados and the Caribbean.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Steffener
- Interdisciplinary School of Health Science, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | - Shireen Farghal
- Interdisciplinary School of Health Science, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Dylan Franklin
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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Banta Lavenex P, Blandin ML, Gaborieau C, Lavenex P. Well-designed manufacturing work improves some cognitive abilities in individuals with cognitive impairments. FRONTIERS IN REHABILITATION SCIENCES 2024; 5:1377133. [PMID: 38813372 PMCID: PMC11135131 DOI: 10.3389/fresc.2024.1377133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Introduction Employment is recognized as a fundamental human right, which correlates with better physical and mental health. Importantly, well-designed work, which considers the physical, social, and psychological impacts of work, can serve to enhance the cognitive abilities of workers. Although often overlooked, work for individuals with disabilities, including cognitive impairments, is equally important for their physical and mental well-being. What has not been established, however, is whether well-designed work can also enhance the cognitive abilities of individuals with cognitive impairments. Methods Using a longitudinal study design, we investigated the impact of well-designed work on the cognitive abilities of 60 participants (operators) at the AMIPI Foundation factories, which employ individuals with cognitive impairments to produce electrical cables and harnesses for the automobile industry. The same operators were assessed at three different time points: upon hiring (n = 60), and after working in the factory for 1 year (n = 41, since 19 left the factory) and 2 years (n = 28, since 13 more left the factory). We used five cognitive tests evaluating: (1) finger and manual dexterity, bimanual dexterity, and procedural memory using the Purdue Pegboard; (2) sustained and selective attention using the Symbol Cancellation Task; (3) short- and long-term declarative verbal memory and long-term verbal recognition memory using Rey's Audio-Verbal Learning Test; (4) short- and long-term visual recognition memory using the Continuous Visual Memory Test; and (5) abstract reasoning using Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices. Results We observed improvements in procedural memory, sustained and selective attention, and short- and long-term visual recognition memory after working in the factory for 1 or 2 years. We did not observe improvements in finger or manual dexterity or bimanual dexterity, nor short- or long-term declarative verbal memory or verbal recognition memory, nor abstract reasoning. Discussion We conclude that, in addition to improving physical and mental well-being, well-designed manufacturing work can serve as a training intervention improving some types of cognitive functioning in individuals with cognitive impairments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Pierre Lavenex
- Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Development, Institute of Psychology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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2024 Alzheimer's disease facts and figures. Alzheimers Dement 2024; 20:3708-3821. [PMID: 38689398 PMCID: PMC11095490 DOI: 10.1002/alz.13809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
This article describes the public health impact of Alzheimer's disease (AD), including prevalence and incidence, mortality and morbidity, use and costs of care and the ramifications of AD for family caregivers, the dementia workforce and society. The Special Report discusses the larger health care system for older adults with cognitive issues, focusing on the role of caregivers and non-physician health care professionals. An estimated 6.9 million Americans age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer's dementia today. This number could grow to 13.8 million by 2060, barring the development of medical breakthroughs to prevent or cure AD. Official AD death certificates recorded 119,399 deaths from AD in 2021. In 2020 and 2021, when COVID-19 entered the ranks of the top ten causes of death, Alzheimer's was the seventh-leading cause of death in the United States. Official counts for more recent years are still being compiled. Alzheimer's remains the fifth-leading cause of death among Americans age 65 and older. Between 2000 and 2021, deaths from stroke, heart disease and HIV decreased, whereas reported deaths from AD increased more than 140%. More than 11 million family members and other unpaid caregivers provided an estimated 18.4 billion hours of care to people with Alzheimer's or other dementias in 2023. These figures reflect a decline in the number of caregivers compared with a decade earlier, as well as an increase in the amount of care provided by each remaining caregiver. Unpaid dementia caregiving was valued at $346.6 billion in 2023. Its costs, however, extend to unpaid caregivers' increased risk for emotional distress and negative mental and physical health outcomes. Members of the paid health care and broader community-based workforce are involved in diagnosing, treating and caring for people with dementia. However, the United States faces growing shortages across different segments of the dementia care workforce due to a combination of factors, including the absolute increase in the number of people living with dementia. Therefore, targeted programs and care delivery models will be needed to attract, better train and effectively deploy health care and community-based workers to provide dementia care. Average per-person Medicare payments for services to beneficiaries age 65 and older with AD or other dementias are almost three times as great as payments for beneficiaries without these conditions, and Medicaid payments are more than 22 times as great. Total payments in 2024 for health care, long-term care and hospice services for people age 65 and older with dementia are estimated to be $360 billion. The Special Report investigates how caregivers of older adults with cognitive issues interact with the health care system and examines the role non-physician health care professionals play in facilitating clinical care and access to community-based services and supports. It includes surveys of caregivers and health care workers, focusing on their experiences, challenges, awareness and perceptions of dementia care navigation.
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Lee YJ. Work and self-rated memory among native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander older adults. ETHNICITY & HEALTH 2024; 29:523-532. [PMID: 38591263 DOI: 10.1080/13557858.2024.2337620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Engagement in work has an important association with cognitive health in later life, yet little is known about this association among Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander (NHPI) older adults. This study assesses the associations between various work characteristics and memory problems among this population. DESIGN Using data from the 2014 Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander National Health Interview Survey (NHPI NHIS), the research question was explored among those who were aged 50+. RESULTS Engagement in work, certain occupation types (e.g., clerical or professional occupations compared to blue-collar jobs), and the current/most recent job that is also the longest job held were associated with lower odds of having memory problems. CONCLUSION The study's results suggest that work characteristics and opportunities to engage in work are important considerations in preventing memory problems in later life. As the NHPI population experiences cognitive health disparities earlier than other groups, timely interventions that focus on work engagement and a culturally relevant environment require further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeonjung Jane Lee
- Department of Social Work, Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
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Fattori A, Comotti A, Barnini T, Di Tecco C, Laurino M, Bufano P, Ciocan C, Serra D, Ferrari L, Bonzini M. Exploring workability in an older working population: associations with cognitive functioning, sleep quality, and technostress. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1303907. [PMID: 38741912 PMCID: PMC11089127 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1303907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective This observational study investigates workability and its associations with cognitive functioning, sleep quality and technostress among an older working population, also shedding light on potential differences between two occupational categories with different work schedules. Methods Workers aged over 50, employed in different working sectors (banking/finance, chemical and metal-mechanic industry) were administered a self- report questionnaire including Work Ability Index (WAI), cognitive tests (Stroop Color Task, Corsi Blocks, Digit Span), sleep quality questionnaires (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index-PSQI; Insomnia Severity Index-ISI; Ford Insomnia Response to Stress Test-FIRST) and technostress scale. Linear regression models evaluated associations among variables, interaction effects investigated potential moderators. Results A total of 468 aged workers categorized as white (WCWs; N = 289, 62%) or blue collars (BCWs; N = 179, 38%) were enrolled; most BCWs (N = 104; 58%) were night shift workers. WCWs reported higher workability, cognitive functioning, sleep quality and lower technostress (except for invasion and privacy subscales) than BCWs. Associations between cognitive functioning and workability were statistically significant only for BCWs [slopes equal to 0.2 (0.33), 0.8 (0.34), -0.02 (0.001) for Memory Span Corsi, Block Span Digit and Interference Speed respectively]; additionally, sleep quality significantly moderated this association (p = 0.007). Higher levels of technostress were associated with lower workability, and this relationship was stronger for BCWs. Conclusion The aging of the workforce has important implications for occupational health and safety. Our findings suggest potential interventions and protective measures to promote older workers' wellbeing; blue-collar workers particularly should benefit from tailored intervention to sustain workability and prevent technostress, considering the role of healthy sleep habits promotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Fattori
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Comotti
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Teresa Barnini
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Cristina Di Tecco
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene, Italian Workers' Compensation Authority (INAIL), Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Laurino
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council, Pisa, Italy
| | - Pasquale Bufano
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council, Pisa, Italy
| | - Catalina Ciocan
- Department of Public Health and Pediatrics, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Daniele Serra
- Department of Clinical Science and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Ferrari
- Department of Clinical Science and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Bonzini
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Science and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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Owens JH, Fiala J, Jones RN, Marsiske M. The Mediating Effects of Education and Occupational Complexity Between Race and Longitudinal Change in Late Life Cognition in ACTIVE. Res Aging 2024:1640275241248825. [PMID: 38648193 DOI: 10.1177/01640275241248825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
This study examined educational and occupational inequality as two aspects of social determinants of health that might mediate the longitudinal relationship between racialization and late life cognitive level and change. Participants were 2371 individuals racialized as Black and White from the ACTIVE study who provided occupational data. Data were analyzed from baseline and five assessments over 10-years using structural equation modeling. Black/White race served as the predictor, occupational complexity (OC) and years of education as mediators, and cognitive (memory, reasoning, and speed of processing) intercept, linear slope, and quadratic slope as the dependent variables. Black/White race showed significant indirect associations through education and OC on level of performance in cognition, linear change in reasoning and memory, and quadratic change in reasoning. Education and OC accounted for 11-16% of the association between race and cognitive level and represent modifiable social determinants of health that are associated with disparities in cognitive aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua H Owens
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Jacob Fiala
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Richard N Jones
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, USA
| | - Michael Marsiske
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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Huh J, Arpawong TE, Gruenewald TL, Fisher GG, Prescott CA, Manly JJ, Seblova D, Walters EE, Gatz M. General cognitive ability in high school, attained education, occupational complexity, and dementia risk. Alzheimers Dement 2024; 20:2662-2669. [PMID: 38375960 PMCID: PMC11032536 DOI: 10.1002/alz.13739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION We address the extent to which adolescent cognition predicts dementia risk in later life, mediated by educational attainment and occupational complexity. METHODS Using data from Project Talent Aging Study (PTAS), we fitted two structural equation models to test whether adolescent cognition predicts cognitive impairment (CI) and Ascertain Dementia 8 (AD8) status simultaneously (NCognitive Assessment = 2477) and AD8 alone (NQuestionnaire = 6491) 60 years later, mediated by education and occupational complexity. Co-twin control analysis examined 82 discordant pairs for CI/AD8. RESULTS Education partially mediated the effect of adolescent cognition on CI in the cognitive assessment aample and AD8 in the questionnaire sample (Ps < 0.001). Within twin pairs, differences in adolescent cognition were small, but intrapair differences in education predicted CI status. DISCUSSION Adolescent cognition predicted dementia risk 60 years later, partially mediated through education. Educational attainment, but not occupational complexity, contributes to CI risk beyond its role as a mediator of adolescent cognition, further supported by the co-twin analyses. HIGHLIGHTS Project Talent Aging Study follows enrollees from high school for nearly 60 years. General cognitive ability in high school predicts later-life cognitive impairment. Low education is a risk partially due to its association with cognitive ability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jimi Huh
- Department of Population and Public Health SciencesUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Thalida Em Arpawong
- Leonard Davis School of GerontologyUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | | | - Gwenith G. Fisher
- Department of PsychologyColorado State UniversityColorado State UniversityFort CollinsColoradoUSA
| | - Carol A. Prescott
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | | | - Dominika Seblova
- Second Faculty of MedicineCharles University Prague, Second Faculty of Medicine (2. LF UK)PragueCzech Republic
| | - Ellen E. Walters
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Margaret Gatz
- Center for Economic and Social Research, University of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
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Wolfova K, Frycova B, Seblova D, Tom S, Skirbekk VF, Brennan Kearns P. Sex differences in cognitive decline among middle-aged and older adults: a cohort study in Europe. Age Ageing 2024; 53:afae078. [PMID: 38640127 PMCID: PMC11028402 DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afae078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Previous studies on sex differences in cognitive decline provide inconsistent findings, with many European countries being underrepresented. We determined the association between sex and cognitive decline in a sample of Europeans and explored differences across birth cohorts and regions. METHODS Participants 50+ years old enrolled in the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe had their cognition measured by tests of immediate recall, delayed recall and verbal fluency biennially up to 17 years of follow-up (median 6, interquartile range 3-9 years). We used linear mixed-effects models to assess the relationship between sex and the rate of cognitive decline, adjusting for sociodemographic and health-related characteristics. RESULTS Of 66,670 participants (mean baseline age 63.5 ± standard deviation 9.4), 55% were female. Males and females had similar rates of decline in the whole sample in immediate recall (beta for interaction sex × time B = 0.002, 95% CI -0.001 to 0.006), delayed recall (B = 0.000, 95% CI -0.004 to 0.004), and verbal fluency (B = 0.008, 95% CI -0.005 to 0.020). Females born before World War II had a faster rate of decline in immediate recall and delayed recall compared to males, while females born during or after World War II had a slower rate of decline in immediate recall. Females in Central and Eastern Europe had a slower rate of cognitive decline in delayed recall compared to males. DISCUSSION Our study does not provide strong evidence of sex differences in cognitive decline among older Europeans. However, we identified heterogeneity across birth cohorts and regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Wolfova
- Department of Epidemiology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague 150 06, Czech Republic
- Department of Psychiatry and Medical Psychology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague 100 00, Czech Republic
| | - Barbora Frycova
- Department of Epidemiology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague 150 06, Czech Republic
| | - Dominika Seblova
- Department of Epidemiology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague 150 06, Czech Republic
| | - Sarah Tom
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University, New York 10032, NY, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University, 10032 New York, NY, USA
| | - Vegard Fykse Skirbekk
- Centre for Fertility and Health, The Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo 0473, Norway
- Norwegian National Centre for Ageing and Health, Vestfold Hospital Trust, Tønsberg 60512, Norway
- PROMENTA Research Center, Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Columbia Aging Center, Columbia University, New York 10032, NY, USA
| | - Pavla Brennan Kearns
- Department of Epidemiology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague 150 06, Czech Republic
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Johansen T, Øyeflaten I, Eriksen HR, Lyby PS, Dittrich WH, Holsen I, Jakobsen H, Jensen C. Changes in memory and attention during and after occupational rehabilitation: A longitudinal study. Work 2024; 77:949-961. [PMID: 37781841 DOI: 10.3233/wor-230027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is need for more knowledge about the relationship between work and cognitive functioning in sick-listed individuals. OBJECTIVE This study investigated whether the degree of work participation is relevant for recovery of cognitive functioning in sick-listed individuals. METHODS 177 occupational rehabilitation participants and 70 controls participated in a non-randomised, longitudinal study. Participants completed computerised cognitive tests targeting sustained attention and working memory at start and end of rehabilitation and 3 and 12 months after rehabilitation. The change score performance in attention and memory between start and end, start and 3 months and 12 months was compared in individuals on sick leave 100-75%, 74-40% and 39-0% (three sick leave groups) of the time in the year after rehabilitation, and a control group not being on sick leave. Fixed effect analysis of covariance adjusting for education and work ability was used. RESULTS The sick leave group 100-75% had significantly lower score on work ability compared to the other groups at baseline. The main findings indicated that the sick leave group 39-0% improved significantly more in sustained attention compared to the sick leave group 100-75% between start and end of rehabilitation and from start of rehabilitation to 3 and 12 months after. CONCLUSION The degree of work participation seems relevant to recovery of the cognitive function sustained attention in sick-listed individuals. These findings encourage work rehabilitation clinicians, work consultants and employers to develop RTW plans which take into account that graded employment influence cognitive functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Johansen
- Norwegian National Advisory Unit on Occupational Rehabilitation, Rauland, Norway
| | - Irene Øyeflaten
- Norwegian National Advisory Unit on Occupational Rehabilitation, Rauland, Norway
- NORCE, Norwegian Research Centre, Bergen, Norway
| | - Hege R Eriksen
- Department of Sport, Food and Natural Sciences, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, Bergen, Norway
| | | | - Winand H Dittrich
- FOM Hochschule, KCI Competence Center for Behavioral Economics, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Inge Holsen
- Red Cross Haugland Rehabilitation Center, Flekke, Norway
| | | | - Chris Jensen
- Norwegian National Advisory Unit on Occupational Rehabilitation, Rauland, Norway
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Fujiwara Y, Seino S, Nofuji Y, Yokoyama Y, Abe T, Yamashita M, Hata T, Fujita K, Murayama H, Shinkai S, Kitamura A. The relationship between working status in old age and cause-specific disability in Japanese community-dwelling older adults with or without frailty: A 3.6-year prospective study. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2023; 23:855-863. [PMID: 37771279 DOI: 10.1111/ggi.14686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
AIM To examine the effects of employment engagement, classified by frailty and working status, on the incidence of disability in urban community-dwelling older adults. METHODS We used data from 6386 initially nondisabled residents aged 65-84 years from Ota City, Tokyo, Japan, in 2016. The observation duration was 3.6 years. Self-administered questionnaires applied the Cox proportional hazard model by assessing the existence of frailty through Check-List 15 (with a score ≥4 indicating the state of frailty), controlling for age, sex, living situation, education level, equivalent income, chronic conditions, body mass index, instrumental activities of daily living, self-rated health, drinking and smoking status, and social activities. We evaluated the predictive value of working status (full-time, part-time, temporary, or nonworker) at baseline for cause-specific disability (dementia-type vs. non-dementia-type) incidence, identified using the long-term care insurance system's nationally unified database. RESULTS Of the 6386 participants, 806 (63/1134 full-time workers; 58/1001 part-time workers; 61/547 temporary workers; 624/3704 nonworkers) presented with disabilities during the 3.6-year-long duration. Adjustments for conventional covariates showed that nonfrail full-time and part-time workers, as well as frail full-time workers, had significantly lower risks of all-cause disability incidence. Furthermore, nonfrail and frail full-time workers had significantly lower risks of dementia-type and nondementia-type disabilities, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The incidence of disability in older adults was influenced by working and frailty status. Engaging in full-time work thus prevents disabilities in older adults, regardless of their frailty status. Meanwhile, nonfrail older adults are able to avoid disabilities even when engaging in part-time work. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2023; 23: 855-863.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshinori Fujiwara
- Research Team for Social Participation and Community Health, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan
- Integrated Research Initiative for Living Well with Dementia, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoshi Seino
- Research Team for Social Participation and Community Health, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yu Nofuji
- Research Team for Social Participation and Community Health, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuri Yokoyama
- Research Team for Social Participation and Community Health, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takumi Abe
- Research Team for Social Participation and Community Health, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan
- Integrated Research Initiative for Living Well with Dementia, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mari Yamashita
- Research Team for Social Participation and Community Health, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan
- Integrated Research Initiative for Living Well with Dementia, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Toshiki Hata
- Research Team for Social Participation and Community Health, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Koji Fujita
- Research Team for Social Participation and Community Health, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Murayama
- Research Team for Social Participation and Community Health, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shoji Shinkai
- Research Team for Social Participation and Community Health, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Nutrition Sciences, Kagawa Nutrition University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Akihiko Kitamura
- Research Team for Social Participation and Community Health, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan
- Health Town Development Science Center, Yao City Health Center, Osaka, Japan
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Li CY, Aguila E, Arthur P, Peniche J, Gútierrez M, Hernández M, Wong R. Assigning lifetime occupation domains for older Mexicans: MHAS-O*NET linkage protocol. SALUD PUBLICA DE MEXICO 2023; 65:425-433. [PMID: 38060921 PMCID: PMC11006013 DOI: 10.21149/14635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We developed a MHAS (Mexican Health and Aging Study) and O*NET (Occupational Information Network) linkage to allow global researchers using MHAS data to assign lifetime occupation domains for older Mexicans. MATERIALS AND METHODS Three bilingual raters independently matched 440 records with 132 unique occupation codes from the 2012 MHAS. We used a modified Delphi technique to reach agreements. To assess reliability, we compared the distribution of observations between the MHAS file and the MHAS-O*NET linked file across five job categories (upper white collar, lower white collar, upper blue collar, low blue collar, and agriculture/fishing/forestry). The Institutional Review Board at the University of Texas Medical Branch reviewed and approved the research (IRB # 21-0268). RESULTS Using the developed 1:1 MHAS-ONET linkage, consistency between MHAS and ONET was 97.4% across the five job categories. CONCLUSION This MHAS-O*NET linkage will allow researchers to analyze the association between lifetime occupation and multiple dimensions of health, functionality, and retirement determinants for a low-middle income country with a large proportion of workers in the informal sector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Ying Li
- Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Health Professions, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston. Texas, United States..
| | - Emma Aguila
- Price School of Public Policy, University of Southern California. California, United States..
| | - Paul Arthur
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Florida Gulf Coast University. Florida, United States..
| | - Jorge Peniche
- Price School of Public Policy, University of Southern California. California, United States..
| | - Mariela Gútierrez
- School of Public and Population Health, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston. Texas, United States..
| | - Mónica Hernández
- School of Public and Population Health, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston. Texas, United States..
| | - Rebeca Wong
- Department of Population Health & Health Disparities, School of Public and Population Health, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston. Texas, United States. Sealy Center on Aging, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston. Texas, United States. WHO/PAHO Collaborating Center on Aging and Health, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston. Texas, United States..
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14
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Chen R, Calmasini C, Swinnerton K, Wang J, Haneuse S, Ackley SF, Hirst AK, Hayes-Larson E, George KM, Peterson R, Soh Y, Barnes LL, Mayeda ER, Gilsanz P, Mungas DM, Whitmer RA, Corrada MM, Glymour MM. Pragmatic approaches to handling practice effects in longitudinal cognitive aging research. Alzheimers Dement 2023; 19:4028-4036. [PMID: 37199336 PMCID: PMC10524983 DOI: 10.1002/alz.13067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The challenge of accounting for practice effects (PEs) when modeling cognitive change was amplified by the COVID-19 pandemic, which introduced period and mode effects that may bias the estimation of cognitive trajectory. METHODS In three Kaiser Permanente Northern California prospective cohorts, we compared predicted cognitive trajectories and the association of grip strength with cognitive decline using three approaches: (1) no acknowledgment of PE, (2) inclusion of a wave indicator, and (3) constraining PE based on a preliminary model (APM) fit using a subset of the data. RESULTS APM-based correction for PEs based on balanced, pre-pandemic data, and with current age as the timescale produced the smallest discrepancy between within-person and between-person estimated age effects. Estimated associations between grip strength and cognitive decline were not sensitive to the approach used. DISCUSSION Constraining PEs based on a preliminary model is a flexible, pragmatic approach allowing for meaningful interpretation of cognitive change. HIGHLIGHTS The magnitude of practice effects (PEs) varied widely by study. When PEs were present, the three PE approaches resulted in divergent estimated age-related cognitive trajectories. Estimated age-related cognitive trajectories were sometimes implausible in models that did not account for PEs. The associations between grip strength and cognitive decline did not differ by the PE approach used. Constraining PEs based on estimates from a preliminary model allows for a meaningful interpretation of cognitive change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruijia Chen
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Camilla Calmasini
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Kaitlin Swinnerton
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Jingxuan Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Sebastien Haneuse
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sarah F Ackley
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Andrew K Hirst
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, California, USA
| | - Eleanor Hayes-Larson
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Kristen M George
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Rachel Peterson
- School of Public Health and Community Health Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, Montana, USA
| | - Yenee Soh
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, California, USA
| | - Lisa L Barnes
- Department of Neurological Sciences and Rush Alzheimer's Disease Center, Rush Medical College, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Elizabeth Rose Mayeda
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Paola Gilsanz
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, California, USA
| | - Dan M Mungas
- Department of Neurology, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Rachel A Whitmer
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Maria M Corrada
- Department of Neurology, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
| | - M Maria Glymour
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
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Andel R, Veal BM, Howard VJ, MacDonald LA, Judd SE, Crowe M. Retirement and cognitive aging in a racially diverse sample of older Americans. J Am Geriatr Soc 2023; 71:2769-2778. [PMID: 37465869 PMCID: PMC10526697 DOI: 10.1111/jgs.18475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Retirement represents a crucial transitional period for many adults with possible consequences for cognitive aging. We examined trajectories of cognitive change before and after retirement in Black and White adults. METHODS Longitudinal examination of up to 10 years (mean = 7.1 ± 2.2 years) using data from the REasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS) study-a national, longitudinal study of Black and White adults ≥45 years of age. Data were from 2226 members of the REGARDS study who retired around the time when an occupational ancillary survey was administered. Cognitive function was an average of z-scores for tests of verbal fluency, memory, and global function. RESULTS Cognitive functioning was stable before retirement (Estimate = 0.05, p = 0.322), followed by a significant decline after retirement (Estimate = -0.15, p < 0.001). The decline was particularly pronounced in White (Estimate = -0.19, p < 0.001) compared with Black (Estimate = -0.07, p = 0.077) participants, twice as large in men (Estimate = -0.20, p < 0.001) compared with women (Estimate = -0.11, p < 0.001), highest among White men (Estimate = -0.22, p < 0.001) and lowest in Black women (Estimate = -0.04, p = 0.457). Greater post-retirement cognitive decline was also observed among participants who attended college (Estimate = -0.14, p = 0.016). While greater work complexity (Estimate = 0.92, p < 0.05) and higher income (Estimate = 1.03, p < 0.05) were related to better cognitive function at retirement, neither was significantly related to cognitive change after retirement. CONCLUSION Cognitive functioning may decline at an accelerated rate immediately post-retirement, more so in White adults and men than Black adults and women. Lifelong structural inequalities including occupational segregation and other social determinants of cognitive health may obscure the role of retirement in cognitive aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ross Andel
- Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ, United States
- Department of Neurology, Charles University, Second Faculty of Medicine and Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Britney M. Veal
- School of Aging Studies, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, United States
| | - Virginia J. Howard
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Leslie A. MacDonald
- Division of Field Studies and Engineering, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Suzanne E. Judd
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Michael Crowe
- Department of Psychology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham AL, United States
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Pak K, Kooij TAM, De Lange AH, Van den Heuvel S, Van Veldhoven MJPM. Successful ageing at work: The role of job characteristics in growth trajectories of work ability and motivation to work amongst older workers. Acta Psychol (Amst) 2023; 239:104012. [PMID: 37603900 DOI: 10.1016/j.actpsy.2023.104012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
In order to age successfully at work, people need to maintain or improve their work ability and motivation to work. This implies a process that develops over time and can differ substantially between individuals. This study investigated whether different trajectories of perceived work ability and motivation to work can be distinguished between older employees over time and to what extent job demands and job resources are predictive of these different trajectories. We applied growth mixture modelling amongst 5799 employees of 45 years and older at four time points. We found five distinct groups of older workers that differed in their trajectories of perceived work ability and four types of groups of older workers that differed in their trajectories of their motivation to work. Higher levels of physical demands, mental demands, autonomy, supervisor support, and colleague support were less common in unfavourable trajectories. This study gives Human Resource Management practitioners insight into how jobs should be designed to stimulate successful ageing at work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Pak
- Human Resource Studies, Tilburg University, Tilburg, the Netherlands.
| | - T A M Kooij
- Human Resource Studies, Tilburg University, Tilburg, the Netherlands
| | - A H De Lange
- Work and Organizational Psychology, Open University, Heerlen, the Netherlands
| | - S Van den Heuvel
- Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), Hoofddorp, the Netherlands
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17
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Rouse HJ, Doyle C, Hueluer G, Torres MD, Peterson LJ, Pan X, Dobbs D, Du Y, Conner K, Meng H. Music Engagement and Episodic Memory Among Middle-Aged and Older Adults: A National Longitudinal Analysis. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2023; 78:1484-1492. [PMID: 37082891 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbad058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 04/22/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to examine associations between music engagement and episodic memory for more than 12 years in a nationally representative sample of middle- and older-aged adults in the United States. METHODS This study is based on a secondary analysis of data from a sample (N = 5,021) of cognitively normal adults from the Health and Retirement Study (2006-2018). Episodic memory was measured by immediate and delayed recall tasks. Music engagement was classified as none, passive (i.e., listening to music), active (i.e., singing and/or playing an instrument), or both (i.e., listening to music and singing or playing an instrument). RESULTS Compared with those with no music engagement, respondents who reported both passive and active engagement performed 0.258 points better at baseline on episodic memory tasks. This group also performed better across time with scores that declined by 0.043 points fewer per study visit. Additionally, compared to those with no music engagement, participants with passive music engagement had scores that declined by 0.023 points fewer per visit. There were no significant differences in performance at baseline for those with passive or active music engagement, or across time for those with active engagement. DISCUSSION The results of this study suggest that engaging in both passive and active music engagement may be superior to engaging with music only passively or actively and that engaging in music both ways may be able to protect against age-related declines in episodic memory. Future research should examine whether community-based music engagement interventions can affect this trajectory of decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hillary J Rouse
- School of Aging Studies, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Cassidy Doyle
- School of Aging Studies, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Gizem Hueluer
- Department of Psychology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Mia D Torres
- School of Aging Studies, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Lindsay J Peterson
- School of Aging Studies, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Xi Pan
- Department of Sociology, Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas, USA
- Department of Geriatrics, Greenville Health System, Greenville, South Carolina, USA
| | - Debra Dobbs
- School of Aging Studies, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Yan Du
- University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Kyaien Conner
- Department of Mental Health and Law Policy, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Hongdao Meng
- School of Aging Studies, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
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18
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Tomasino B, De Fraja G, Guarracino I, Ius T, D’Agostini S, Skrap M, Ida Rumiati R. Cognitive reserve and individual differences in brain tumour patients. Brain Commun 2023; 5:fcad198. [PMID: 37483531 PMCID: PMC10361024 DOI: 10.1093/braincomms/fcad198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of the paper is to determine the effects of the cognitive reserve on brain tumour patients' cognitive functions and, specifically, if cognitive reserve helps patients cope with the negative effects of brain tumours on their cognitive functions. We retrospectively studied a large sample of around 700 patients, diagnosed with a brain tumour. Each received an MRI brain examination and performed a battery of tests measuring their cognitive abilities before they underwent neurosurgery. To account for the complexity of cognitive reserve, we construct our cognitive reserve proxy by combining three predictors of patients' cognitive performance, namely, patients' education, occupation, and the environment where they live. Our statistical analysis controls for the type, side, site, and size of the lesion, for fluid intelligence quotient, and for age and gender, in order to tease out the effect of cognitive reserve on each of these tests. Clinical neurological variables have the expected effects on cognitive functions. We find a robust positive effect of cognitive reserve on patients' cognitive performance. Moreover, we find that cognitive reserve modulates the effects of the volume of the lesion: the additional negative impact of an increase in the tumour size on patients' performance is less severe for patients with higher cognitive reserve. We also find substantial differences in these effects depending on the cerebral hemisphere where the lesion occurred and on the cognitive function considered. For several of these functions, the positive effect of cognitive reserve is stronger for patients with lesions in the left hemisphere than for patients whose lesions are in the right hemisphere. The development of prevention strategies and personalized rehabilitation interventions will benefit from our contribution to understanding the role of cognitive reserve, in addition to that of neurological variables, as one of the factors determining the patients' individual differences in cognitive performance caused by brain tumours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Tomasino
- Correspondence to: Barbara Tomasino, Scientific Institute, IRCCS E. Medea, Unità Operativa Pasian di Prato, Via Cialdini 29, Udine 33037, Italy E-mail:
| | - Gianni De Fraja
- Nottingham School of Economics, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
- CEPR, London EC1V 7DB, UK
| | - Ilaria Guarracino
- Scientific Institute, IRCCS E. Medea, Unità Operativa Pasian di Prato, Udine 33037, Italy
| | - Tamara Ius
- Unità Operativa di Neurochirurgia, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale, Udine 33100, Italy
| | - Serena D’Agostini
- Unità Operativa di Neuroradiologia, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale, Udine, Italy
| | - Miran Skrap
- Unità Operativa di Neurochirurgia, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale, Udine 33100, Italy
| | - Raffaella Ida Rumiati
- Neuroscience Area, Scuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati, Trieste 34136, Italy
- Dipartimento di Medicina dei Sistemi, University of Rome ‘Tor Vergata’, Roma 00133, Italy
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Martin-Bassols N, de New SC, Johnston DW, Shields MA. Cognitive activity at work and the risk of dementia. HEALTH ECONOMICS 2023; 32:1561-1580. [PMID: 36967557 DOI: 10.1002/hec.4679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Dementia prevalence is projected to rise steeply in coming decades, producing tremendous burdens on families, and health and social services. Motivated by the need for further robust evidence on modifiable risk factors, we investigate the relationship between cognitive activity at work and later-life dementia. Using data from the US Health and Retirement Study matched to the O*NET occupational database, we find that a one standard deviation increase in the cognitive activity associated with one's longest held occupation is associated with a 0.9 percentage point reduction in (predicted) dementia, or a 24% reduction relative to the mean. This relationship is consistently found across model specifications and robustness tests. When controlling for individual fixed-effects we find that the association between dementia and work cognitive activity increases with age. Overall, our results provide some evidence in support of the inclusion of cognitive activity at work as a recognized modifiable risk factor for dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sonja C de New
- Centre for Health Economics, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - David W Johnston
- Centre for Health Economics, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael A Shields
- Centre for Health Economics, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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Rhodes E, Alfa S, Jin H, Massimo L, Elman L, Amado D, Baer M, Quinn C, McMillan CT. Cognitive reserve in ALS: The role of occupational skills and requirements. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2023:2023.06.21.23291677. [PMID: 37425709 PMCID: PMC10327222 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.21.23291677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Background Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a heterogeneous neurodegenerative condition featuring variable degrees of motor decline and cognitive impairment. We test the hypothesis that cognitive reserve (CR), defined by occupational histories involving more complex cognitive demands, may protect against cognitive decline, while motor reserve (MR), defined by working jobs requiring complex motor skills, may protect against motor dysfunction. Methods Individuals with ALS (n=150) were recruited from the University of Pennsylvania's Comprehensive ALS Clinic. Cognitive performance was evaluated using the Edinburgh Cognitive and Behavioral ALS Screen (ECAS), and motor functioning was measured using Penn Upper Motor Neuron (PUMNS) scale and ALS Functional Rating Scales (ALSFRS-R). The Occupational Information Network (O*NET) Database was used to derive 17 factors representing distinct worker characteristics, occupational requirements, and worker requirements, which were related to ECAS, PUMNS, and ALSFRS-R scores using multiple linear regression. Results A history of working jobs involving greater reasoning ability (β=2.12, p<.05), social ability (β=1.73, p<.05), analytic skills, (β=3.12, p<.01) and humanities knowledge (β=1.83, p<.01) was associated with better performance on the ECAS, while jobs involving more exposure to environmental hazards (β=-2.57, p<.01) and technical skills (β=-2.16, p<.01) were associated with lower ECAS Total Scores. Jobs involving greater precision skills (β=1.91, p<.05) were associated with greater disease severity on the PUMNS. Findings for the ALSFRS-R did not survive correction for multiple comparisons. Discussion Jobs requiring greater reasoning abilities, social skills, and humanities knowledge were related to preserved cognitive functioning consistent with CR, while jobs with greater exposure to environmental hazards and technical demands were linked to poorer cognitive functioning. We did not find evidence of MR as no protective effects of occupational skills and requirements were found for motor symptoms, and jobs involving greater precision skills and reasoning abilities were associated with worse motor functioning. Occupational history provides insight into protective and risk factors for variable degrees of cognitive and motor dysfunction in ALS.
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Frank CC, Mundy LM, Smith J. Life course engagement in enriching activities: When and how does it matter for cognitive aging? Psychol Aging 2023; 38:263-276. [PMID: 37067480 PMCID: PMC10238678 DOI: 10.1037/pag0000744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
Growing evidence suggests that participation in enriching activities (physical, social, and mental) across the life course is beneficial for cognitive functioning in older age. However, few studies have examined the effects of enrichment across the entire life course within the same participants. Using 2,931 participants in the Health and Retirement Study, we linked self-report data from later life and retrospective self-report data from early life and midlife to cognitive performance after Age 65. We categorized participants as having either high (top ∼25%) or average to low (bottom ∼75%) level of enrichment during each life period. Thus, eight groups were identified that reflected unique patterns of enrichment during early, mid, and later life (e.g., high-high-high). Using growth curve modeling, we found that life course enrichment patterns predicted both cognitive functioning and the rate of cognitive decline across five time points spanning 8 years (Aim 1). Groups with high enrichment during at least one life period had higher performance and slower decline in older age, compared to those who had average to low levels of enrichment throughout all three life periods. We also found that high enrichment during each life period independently predicted better cognitive performance and that high enrichment during early and later life also predicted slower cognitive decline (Aim 2). These findings support the idea that high enrichment is beneficial for cognition in later life and that the effects are long-lasting, even when individuals are inconsistent in enrichment engagement throughout the entire life course. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jacqui Smith
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan
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Abstract
This article describes the public health impact of Alzheimer's disease, including prevalence and incidence, mortality and morbidity, use and costs of care, and the overall impact on family caregivers, the dementia workforce and society. The Special Report examines the patient journey from awareness of cognitive changes to potential treatment with drugs that change the underlying biology of Alzheimer's. An estimated 6.7 million Americans age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer's dementia today. This number could grow to 13.8 million by 2060 barring the development of medical breakthroughs to prevent, slow or cure AD. Official death certificates recorded 121,499 deaths from AD in 2019, and Alzheimer's disease was officially listed as the sixth-leading cause of death in the United States. In 2020 and 2021, when COVID-19 entered the ranks of the top ten causes of death, Alzheimer's was the seventh-leading cause of death. Alzheimer's remains the fifth-leading cause of death among Americans age 65 and older. Between 2000 and 2019, deaths from stroke, heart disease and HIV decreased, whereas reported deaths from AD increased more than 145%. This trajectory of deaths from AD was likely exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021. More than 11 million family members and other unpaid caregivers provided an estimated 18 billion hours of care to people with Alzheimer's or other dementias in 2022. These figures reflect a decline in the number of caregivers compared with a decade earlier, as well as an increase in the amount of care provided by each remaining caregiver. Unpaid dementia caregiving was valued at $339.5 billion in 2022. Its costs, however, extend to family caregivers' increased risk for emotional distress and negative mental and physical health outcomes - costs that have been aggravated by COVID-19. Members of the paid health care workforce are involved in diagnosing, treating and caring for people with dementia. In recent years, however, a shortage of such workers has developed in the United States. This shortage - brought about, in part, by COVID-19 - has occurred at a time when more members of the dementia care workforce are needed. Therefore, programs will be needed to attract workers and better train health care teams. Average per-person Medicare payments for services to beneficiaries age 65 and older with AD or other dementias are almost three times as great as payments for beneficiaries without these conditions, and Medicaid payments are more than 22 times as great. Total payments in 2023 for health care, long-term care and hospice services for people age 65 and older with dementia are estimated to be $345 billion. The Special Report examines whether there will be sufficient numbers of physician specialists to provide Alzheimer's care and treatment now that two drugs are available that change the underlying biology of Alzheimer's disease.
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Amarnani RK, Bordia P, Garcia PRJM, Sykes-Bridge I. You Can Leave the Younger Workers Out of It! Toward a Centered Paradigm for Studying Older Workers’ Employment Relationships and Late-Career Dynamics. GROUP & ORGANIZATION MANAGEMENT 2023. [DOI: 10.1177/10596011231161974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
Are late careers worth studying in their own right? The way we think and reason about older workers and late careers—in scholarship and in practice—has been disproportionately informed by a research paradigm that focuses on age differences among employees, which captures how older workers on average differ from younger workers on average. While this contrastive paradigm has been generative, it can also inaccurately portray older workers as a static, homogenous group. In contrast, older workers show considerable heterogeneity (older workers vary), meaningful dynamics (older workers change), and dynamic heterogeneity (older workers vary in how they change). In this paper, we propose that the contrastive paradigm be complemented with a centered paradigm that centers on how older workers vary and change. We develop a theoretical model of how older worker dynamics and older worker heterogeneity shape the quality of their employment relationship—in terms of psychological contracts—which in turn shape their career trajectories and work role enactment. By centering this line of research on older workers, we gain a higher-resolution view of these late careers as unfolding over time and varying among older workers.
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Saha P, Salmela J, Lallukka T, Aho AL. Functioning Changes in Varying Ways After Retirement: A Scoping Review. INQUIRY : A JOURNAL OF MEDICAL CARE ORGANIZATION, PROVISION AND FINANCING 2023; 60:469580221142477. [PMID: 36604784 PMCID: PMC9830080 DOI: 10.1177/00469580221142477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The association between retirement and functioning remains still poorly known. This scoping review examines physical, social, cognitive, and mental functioning after retirement, describes the changes in them, determines the different aspects that affect functioning, and documents the main characteristics of the phenomenon. We systematically scoped the relevant studies on functioning after retirement using CINAHL, MEDLINE, Medic, and PubMed databases. This scoping review included both qualitative and quantitative studies. The studies were analysed with inductive content analysis. After retirement, functioning was found to decline but also improve, and additionally, inequalities in functioning emerged. Functioning after retirement changed in ways which were: declining functioning, improving functioning, and inequalities in functioning. Only a few qualitative studies were found. This scoping review shows that functioning after retirement changes in varying ways. The results show that more qualitative research is needed to help us gain a more profound understanding on, for example, individuals' motives to improve leisure, physical, and social activities after retirement, which are likely to contribute to changes in functioning. Additionally, further longitudinal studies would offer knowledge about the long-term effects of retirement on the different dimensions of functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauliina Saha
- Tampere University, Tampere,
Finland,Pauliina Saha, Faculty of Social Science,
School of Health Science, Nursing Science, Tampere University, Vesilahti 37470,
Finland.
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Cox RJA, Wallace RB. The Role of Incarceration as a Risk Factor for Cognitive Impairment. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2022; 77:e247-e262. [PMID: 36153747 PMCID: PMC9799218 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbac138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to understand disparities in cognitive impairment between middle-aged formerly incarcerated (FI) and nonincarcerated individuals. METHODS The 1979 National Longitudinal Survey of Youth is a nationally representative longitudinal data set containing information on incarceration, cognitive functioning, and other health conditions. Using a modified version of the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status (TICS-m), adapted from the Health and Retirement Study, we analyzed the association between incarceration and cognitive impairment, cognitive impairment-not dementia and dementia. Multivariable regression models were estimated, including prior incarceration status and covariates associated with incarceration and cognitive functioning. RESULTS FI individuals had lower unadjusted scores on TICS-m (-2.5, p < .001) and had significantly greater unadjusted odds ratios (OR) for scoring in the cognitive impairment (OR = 2.4, p < .001) and dementia (OR = 2.7, p < .001) range. Differences were largely explained by a combination of risk factors associated with incarceration and cognition. Education and premorbid cognition (measured by Armed Forces Qualification Test) separately and completely explained differences in the odds of dementia. Regardless of incarceration status, Blacks and Hispanics had significantly greater odds of cognitive impairment and dementia relative to Whites, holding other factors constant. DISCUSSION The association between prior incarceration and cognitive impairment in middle age was largely explained by differences in educational attainment and premorbid cognitive functioning, supporting the cognitive reserve hypothesis. Greater prevalence of cognitive impairment and dementia among the FI could create challenges and should be considered in reentry planning. Structural and institutional factors should be considered when addressing health disparities in Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robynn J A Cox
- School of Public Policy, University of California, Riverside, California, USA
| | - Robert B Wallace
- College of Public Health, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
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Rodriguez FS, Saenz J. Working in old age in Mexico: Implications for Cognitive Functioning. AGEING & SOCIETY 2022; 42:2489-2509. [PMID: 36569595 PMCID: PMC9782718 DOI: 10.1017/s0144686x2100012x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies indicate that occupation might affect cognitive functioning in late life. As people in low and middle income countries often have to work until late life, we sought to investigate if there are cognitive benefits to working later into life and whether cognitive function deteriorates after exiting the labor force. We analyzed longitudinal data from the Mexican Health and Aging Study (MHAS), a nationally representative sample of Mexican adults age 50+ (n=7,375), that assessed cognitive functioning by verbal learning, delayed recall, and visual scanning. Analyses were carried out using mixed-effects modeling corrected for the influence of gender, IADLs, diabetes, stroke, hypertension, depression, income, and marital status. Results suggest that working actively, compared to exiting the workforce, was associated with cognitive performance only in context with occupation. Domestic workers had a faster decline in verbal learning (b=-0.02, p=0.020) and delayed recall (b=-0.02, p=0.036) if they continued working actively and people working in administration (b=0.03, p=0.007), sales (b=0.02, p=0.044), and educators (b=0.03, p=0.049) had a slower decline in visual scanning if they continued working in old age. Our findings indicate that continued participation in the labor force in old age does not necessarily come with cognitive benefits. Whether or not working actively in later life protects or even harms cognitive functioning is likely to depend on the type of job.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisca S. Rodriguez
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Greifswald, Germany
- Center for Cognitive Science, University of Kaiserslautern, Kaiserslautern, Germany
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Joseph Saenz
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, United States
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Calatayud E, Lozano-Berges G, Peralta-Marrupe P, Latorre E, Gomez-Soria I. Job demands may determine cognitive and physical aging after retirement. J Appl Gerontol 2022; 41:2435-2446. [PMID: 35959648 DOI: 10.1177/07334648221120080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
During adulthood, we spend most of our time and efforts at work. However, the impact of employment in aging is poorly explored. Our study addressed how job demands can affect aging after retirement. We have developed a descriptive observational study carried out in 367 older adults with a mean age of 73.9 years (66.5% women and 33.5% men), measuring cognition and functional status. Our results demonstrate that older adults who had high mental demands in their jobs, show better scores in cognition. However, they show poor functional development of basic and instrumental activities of daily life (p< .05). In contrast, former workers who had high physical demands, display lower scores in cognition and lower functional performance in instrumental activities (p< .05). Work life activities contribute to cognitive and physical decline after retirement. Therefore, healthy aging should include interventions that consider the job influence on the age impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estela Calatayud
- Department of Physiatry and Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, 16765Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain.,Institute of Health Research of Aragón (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Gabriel Lozano-Berges
- Department of Physiatry and Nursing, Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences, 16765Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain.,Growth, Exercise, Nutrition and Development (GENUD) Research Group, 16765Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Patricia Peralta-Marrupe
- Department of Physiatry and Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, 16765Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Eva Latorre
- Institute of Health Research of Aragón (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology, Faculty of Sciences, 16765Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Isabel Gomez-Soria
- Department of Physiatry and Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, 16765Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain.,Institute of Health Research of Aragón (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain
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Zeng Y, Lum TYS, Chen YC. The intersectionality of life course socioeconomic status, race, and cognitive decline: An 18-year follow-up. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2022; 37. [PMID: 35775714 DOI: 10.1002/gps.5774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Studies have documented the impact of childhood socioeconomic status (SES) on cognition. However, research that simultaneously considers SES in varied life stages, the multidimensional mechanisms, and racial differences is relatively understudied. This study examines the intersectionality across age, SES, and race and its impact on cognitive trajectories. METHODS Using 8376 respondents aged 65+ from the 1998-2016 Health and Retirement Study, we used latent growth curve modeling to examine the effects of four life course models (latency, pathway, accumulation, and mobility) on 18-year trajectories of mental status and episodic memory. We further tested for differences in the links between SES and cognitive trajectories between black and white respondents. RESULTS Cognitive function declines with age and is interrelated with SES and race. Adulthood has a stronger effect on cognitive performance than childhood. However, linked positive childhood and adulthood SES contributes to positive cognition. Accumulated SES disadvantages were associated with lower cognition. Older adults with downward mobility and low SES throughout their lifespans had the lowest cognition scores. Life course models operated differently on trajectories of cognitive decline, yet the effects were particularly evident among older black respondents. Overall, those with socioeconomic advantages tended to have a slower decline in cognition, while a faster decline occurred for those with accrued disadvantages. CONCLUSIONS Cognitive performance is a complex, longitudinal process intertwined with socioeconomic conditions and population heterogeneity shaped by life course contexts. Policies that facilitate healthy cognitive performance and address SES inequality could equalize health opportunities and address racial cognitive disparities later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Zeng
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Terry Yat Sang Lum
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Yu-Chih Chen
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
- Social Policy Institute, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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Hwang IC, Ahn HY, Suh HS. Retirement is not associated with age‐related cognitive impairment in Korean adults. Am J Ind Med 2022; 65:762-767. [DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- In C. Hwang
- Department of Family Medicine, Gil Medical Center Gachon University College of Medicine Incheon South Korea
| | - Hong Y. Ahn
- Department of Statistics Dongguk University Seoul South Korea
| | - Heuy S. Suh
- Department of Family Medicine, Gil Medical Center Gachon University College of Medicine Incheon South Korea
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Muhammad T, Srivastava S, Sekher TV. Assessing socioeconomic inequalities in cognitive impairment among older adults: a study based on a cross-sectional survey in India. BMC Geriatr 2022; 22:389. [PMID: 35505289 PMCID: PMC9066837 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-022-03076-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The rapidly aging population is a major concern for countries, especially where cognitive health in older age is poor. The study examined the socioeconomic and health-related factors associated with cognitive impairment among older adults and the contribution of those factors to the concentration of low cognitive functioning among older adults from economically poor households. Methods Data this study were derived from the “Building Knowledge Base on Population Ageing in India” (BKPAI) survey, which was carried out in seven major states of India. The effective sample size for the analysis was 9176 older adults aged 60 years and above. Results from descriptive and bivariate analysis were reported in the initial stage. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted to explore the associations. Additionally, the concentration index and concentration curve were used to measure socioeconomic inequality in cognitive impairment among older adults. Wagstaff decomposition was employed to explore the key contributors in the concentration index. Results Nearly 60% of older adults suffered from cognitive impairment in the study. The likelihood of cognitive impairment were higher among older adults with a low level of self-perceived income sufficiency [coefficient: 0.29; confidence interval (CI): 0.07- 0.52] compared to older adults with higher levels of perceived income status. Older adults with more than 10 years of schooling were less likely to be cognitively impaired [coefficient: -1.27; CI: − 1.50- -1.04] in comparison to those with no education. Cognitive impairment was concentrated among older adults from households with the lowest wealth quintile (concentration index (CCI): − 0.10: p < 0.05). Educational status explained 44.6% of socioeconomic inequality, followed by 31.8% by wealth status and 11.5% by psychological health. Apart from these factors, difficulty in instrumental activities of daily living (3.7%), caste (3.7%), and perceived income sufficiency to fulfil basic needs (3.0%) explained socioeconomic inequality in cognitive impairment among older adults. Conclusions Findings suggest that older adults with lower perceived income, lower levels of education, poor physical and mental health, and poor physical and social resources were more likely to be cognitively impaired. Education, wealth and psychological health are major contributors in socioeconomic inequality in late-life cognitive impairment, which may be target areas in future policy formulation to reduce the inequality in cognitive impairment in older Indian adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Muhammad
- Department of Family and Generations, International Institute for Population Sciences, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 400088, India
| | - Shobhit Srivastava
- Department of Survey Research & Data Analytics, International Institute for Population Sciences, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 400088, India.
| | - T V Sekher
- Department of Family and Generations, International Institute for Population Sciences, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 400088, India
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Abstract
This article describes the public health impact of Alzheimer's disease (AD), including incidence and prevalence, mortality and morbidity, use and costs of care, and the overall impact on family caregivers, the dementia workforce and society. The Special Report discusses consumers' and primary care physicians' perspectives on awareness, diagnosis and treatment of mild cognitive impairment (MCI), including MCI due to Alzheimer's disease. An estimated 6.5 million Americans age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer's dementia today. This number could grow to 13.8 million by 2060 barring the development of medical breakthroughs to prevent, slow or cure AD. Official death certificates recorded 121,499 deaths from AD in 2019, the latest year for which data are available. Alzheimer's disease was officially listed as the sixth-leading cause of death in the United States in 2019 and the seventh-leading cause of death in 2020 and 2021, when COVID-19 entered the ranks of the top ten causes of death. Alzheimer's remains the fifth-leading cause of death among Americans age 65 and older. Between 2000 and 2019, deaths from stroke, heart disease and HIV decreased, whereas reported deaths from AD increased more than 145%. More than 11 million family members and other unpaid caregivers provided an estimated 16 billion hours of care to people with Alzheimer's or other dementias in 2021. These figures reflect a decline in the number of caregivers compared with a decade earlier, as well as an increase in the amount of care provided by each remaining caregiver. Unpaid dementia caregiving was valued at $271.6 billion in 2021. Its costs, however, extend to family caregivers' increased risk for emotional distress and negative mental and physical health outcomes - costs that have been aggravated by COVID-19. Members of the dementia care workforce have also been affected by COVID-19. As essential care workers, some have opted to change jobs to protect their own health and the health of their families. However, this occurs at a time when more members of the dementia care workforce are needed. Average per-person Medicare payments for services to beneficiaries age 65 and older with AD or other dementias are almost three times as great as payments for beneficiaries without these conditions, and Medicaid payments are more than 22 times as great. Total payments in 2022 for health care, long-term care and hospice services for people age 65 and older with dementia are estimated to be $321 billion. A recent survey commissioned by the Alzheimer's Association revealed several barriers to consumers' understanding of MCI. The survey showed low awareness of MCI among Americans, a reluctance among Americans to see their doctor after noticing MCI symptoms, and persistent challenges for primary care physicians in diagnosing MCI. Survey results indicate the need to improve MCI awareness and diagnosis, especially in underserved communities, and to encourage greater participation in MCI-related clinical trials.
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Wakely H, Radakovic R, Bateman A, Simblett S, Fish J, Gracey F. Psychometric Properties of the Revised Dysexecutive Questionnaire in a Non-clinical Population. Front Hum Neurosci 2022; 16:767367. [PMID: 35308604 PMCID: PMC8924056 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.767367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims The aim of this study was to assess the psychometric properties of the revised self-rated version of the Dysexecutive Questionnaire (DEX-R) within a non-clinical sample. Methods The study was hosted online, with 140 participants completing the DEX-R, GAD-2 and PHQ-2. Sixty participants also completed the FrSBe, with 99 additionally completing the DEX-R again 3 weeks later. Correlations with demographic factors and symptoms of anxiety and depression were conducted. Rasch and factor analysis were also used to explore underlying subconstructs. Results The DEX-R correlated highly with the FrSBe, indicating sound concurrent validity. Internal consistency, split-half reliability and test-retest reliability were excellent. Age and symptoms of depression and anxiety correlated with DEX-R scores, with older age associated with less dysexecutive problems. The Rasch analysis confirmed the multidimensionality of the rating scale, and a three-factor structure was found relating to activation-self-regulatory, cognitive and social-emotional processes. Frequencies of responses on DEX-R items varied, many were not fully endorsed indicating specific relevance of most but not all items to patients. Conclusion Interpretations of DEX-R ratings of dysexecutive problems should consider mood and individual variation. Systematic comparison of DEX-R responses between healthy and clinical groups could help identify a suitable cut off for dysexecutive symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Wakely
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Ratko Radakovic
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom
- The Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neurone Disease, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Alzheimer Scotland Dementia Research Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Centre for Cognitive Aging and Cognitive Epidemiology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Bateman
- School of Health and Social Care, University of Essex, Colchester, United Kingdom
| | - Sara Simblett
- Department of Psychology, King’s College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jessica Fish
- Department of Clinical Neuropsychology and Clinical Health Psychology, St George’s Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
- Mental Health and Wellbeing, Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Fergus Gracey
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom
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Sánchez-Carro Y, de la Torre-Luque A, Portella MJ, Leal-Leturia I, Salvat-Pujol N, Massaneda C, de Arriba-Arnau A, Urretavizcaya M, Peretó M, Toll A, Martínez-Ruiz A, Ferreiros-Martinez R, Álvarez P, Soria V, López-García P. Relationship between immunometabolic status and cognitive performance among major depression disorder patients. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2022; 137:105631. [PMID: 34929555 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2021.105631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alterations in cognitive performance have been described in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). However, the specific risk factors of these changes are not yet known. This study aimed to explore whether inmunometabolic parameters are related to cognitive performance in MDD in comparison to healthy controls (HC) METHODS: Sample consisted of 84 MDD patients and 78 HC. Both groups were compared on the results of cognitive performance measured with the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB), the presence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and an inflammatory/oxidative index calculated by a principal component analysis of peripheral biomarkers (tumor necrosis factor, C-reactive protein and 4-hydroxynonenal). A multiple linear regression was carried out, to study the relationship between inmunometabolic variables and the global cognitive performance, being the latter the dependent variable. RESULTS Significant differences were obtained in the inflammatory/oxidative index between both groups (F(1157)= 12.93; p < .001), also in cognitive performance (F(1157)= 56.75; p < .001). The inmunometabolic covariate regression model (i.e., condition (HC/MDD), sex, age and medication loading, MetS, inflammatory/oxidative index and the interaction between MetS and inflammatory/oxidative index) was statistically significant (F(7157)= 11.24; p < .01) and explained 31% of variance. The condition, being either MDD or HD, (B=-0.97; p < .001), age (B=-0.28; p < .001) and the interaction between inflammatory/oxidative index and MetS (B=-0.38; p = .02) were factors associated to cognitive performance. LIMITATIONS Sample size was relatively small. The cross-sectional design of the study limits the possibilities of analysis. CONCLUSIONS Our results provide evidence on the conjoint influence of metabolic and inflammatory dysregulation on cognitive dysfunction in MDD patients. In this way, our study opens a line of research in immunometabolic agents to deal with cognitive decline associated with MDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yolanda Sánchez-Carro
- Department of Psychiatry, Universidad Autonoma de Madrid (UAM), Spain; Department of Psychiatry, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Princesa (IIS-IP), Madrid, Spain; Center for Biomedical Research in Mental Health (CIBERSAM), Carlos III Health Institute, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alejandro de la Torre-Luque
- Center for Biomedical Research in Mental Health (CIBERSAM), Carlos III Health Institute, Madrid, Spain; Department of Legal Medicine, Psychiatry and Pathology, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria J Portella
- Center for Biomedical Research in Mental Health (CIBERSAM), Carlos III Health Institute, Madrid, Spain; Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau (IIB-Sant Pau), Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona (UAB), Spain
| | - Itziar Leal-Leturia
- Department of Psychiatry, Universidad Autonoma de Madrid (UAM), Spain; Department of Psychiatry, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Princesa (IIS-IP), Madrid, Spain; Center for Biomedical Research in Mental Health (CIBERSAM), Carlos III Health Institute, Madrid, Spain
| | - Neus Salvat-Pujol
- Bellvitge University Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Neurosciences Group - Psychiatry and Mental Health, Barcelona, Spain; Corporació Sanitària Parc Taulí, Department of Mental Health, Sabadell, Spain
| | - Clara Massaneda
- Bellvitge University Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Neurosciences Group - Psychiatry and Mental Health, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Aida de Arriba-Arnau
- Bellvitge University Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Neurosciences Group - Psychiatry and Mental Health, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mikel Urretavizcaya
- Center for Biomedical Research in Mental Health (CIBERSAM), Carlos III Health Institute, Madrid, Spain; Bellvitge University Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Neurosciences Group - Psychiatry and Mental Health, Barcelona, Spain; Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Medicine, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), Spain
| | | | - Alba Toll
- Institute of Neuropsychiatry and Addictions, Hospital del Mar, IMIM, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Antonio Martínez-Ruiz
- Unidad de Investigación, Hospital Universitario Santa Cristina, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Princesa (IIS-IP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Raquel Ferreiros-Martinez
- Service of Clinical Analysis, Hospital Universitario de la Princesa, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Princesa (IIS-IP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Pilar Álvarez
- Institute of Neuropsychiatry and Addictions, Hospital del Mar, IMIM, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Virginia Soria
- Center for Biomedical Research in Mental Health (CIBERSAM), Carlos III Health Institute, Madrid, Spain; Bellvitge University Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Neurosciences Group - Psychiatry and Mental Health, Barcelona, Spain; Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Medicine, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), Spain
| | - Pilar López-García
- Department of Psychiatry, Universidad Autonoma de Madrid (UAM), Spain; Department of Psychiatry, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Princesa (IIS-IP), Madrid, Spain; Center for Biomedical Research in Mental Health (CIBERSAM), Carlos III Health Institute, Madrid, Spain.
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Chen X, Xue B, Hu Y. Cognitive reserve over life course and 7-year trajectories of cognitive decline: results from China health and retirement longitudinal study. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:231. [PMID: 35120480 PMCID: PMC8815141 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-12671-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cognitive reserve (CR) could partly explain the individual heterogeneity in cognitive decline. No study measured CR from a life course perspective and investigated the association between CR and trajectories of cognitive decline in older Chinese adults. Methods Data of 6795 Chinese adults aged 60+ from China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study were used. Global cognition score (0–32) was assessed in all four waves. A life-course CR score was constructed using markers of childhood circumstance, education, highest occupational class, and leisure activities in later life. Latent growth curve modelling (LGCM) was applied to assess the association between CR and trajectories of cognitive decline. Results For the life-course CR, factor loadings of markers in adulthood and later life were larger than that of markers in childhood. The life-course CR score (ranged between − 2.727 and 6.537, SD: 1.74) was higher in urban Chinese adults (0.75, SD: 1.90) than in rural Chinese adults (− 0.50, SD: 1.43). The unconditional LGCM results showed that urban older Chinese adults had better global cognition at baseline (intercept: 15.010, 95% CI: 14.783, 15.237) and a slower rate of cognitive decline per year (linear slope: -0.394, 95% CI: − 0.508, − 0.281) than their rural counterparts (intercept: 12.144, 95% CI: 11.960, 12.329; linear slope: -0.498, 95% CI: − 0.588, − 0.408). After controlling for all covariates, one-unit higher CR score was associated with 1.615 (95% CI: 1.521, 1.709) and 1.768 (95% CI: 1.659, 1.876) unit higher global cognition at baseline for urban and rural older Chinese adults, respectively. The slower rate of cognitive decline associated with higher CR was more evident in rural residents (slope: 0.083, 95% CI: 0.057, 0.108) than in their urban counterparts (0.054, 95% CI: 0.031, 0.077). Conclusions CR was associated with better baseline cognition and slower cognitive decline in Chinese older adults. Although rural residents were disadvantaged in both CR and cognition, the protective effect of CR against cognitive decline was stronger for them than in those who live in urban area. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-022-12671-6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuanji Chen
- School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, P. R. China
| | - Baowen Xue
- Research Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Yaoyue Hu
- School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, P. R. China.
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Jung D, Lee J, Meijer E. Revisiting the Effect of Retirement on Cognition: Heterogeneity and Endowment. JOURNAL OF THE ECONOMICS OF AGEING 2022; 21:100361. [PMID: 34840944 PMCID: PMC8612376 DOI: 10.1016/j.jeoa.2021.100361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Since the seminal paper of Rohwedder and Willis (2010), the effect of retirement on cognition has drawn significant research interest from economists. Especially with ongoing policy discussions about public pension reforms and the increasing burden of dementia, it is indisputably an important research question with significant policy implications. Building on this growing literature, our paper makes two important contributions. First, we explicitly consider cognitive demands of jobs in studying hetereogeneity of the retirement effect. As the primary explanation for the potential adverse effect of retirement is that cognition is better maintained through mental exercise (Salthouse, 2006), by investigating the cognitive demands of the job one retires from we can directly test the hypothesized relationship. Second, we avoid biases associated with omitted variables, particularly by controlling for endowed cognitive ability. While endowed, genetic differences in cognitive ability is an important omitted variable that can explain individual differences in cognitive performance as well as selection into a particular type of job, this inherited characteristic has not been controlled for in the prior literature. Taking advantage of the polygenic risk score of cognition (Davies et al., 2015), we control for individual differences in genetic endowments in estimating the effect of retirement on cognition. We find supporting evidence for differential effects of retirement by cognitive demands of jobs after controlling for innate differences in cognition and educational attainment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jinkook Lee
- University of Southern California and RAND Corporation
| | - Erik Meijer
- University of Southern California and RAND Corporation
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Orsholits D, Cullati S, Ghisletta P, Aartsen MJ, Oris M, Studer M, Maurer J, Perna L, Gouveia ÉR, Gouveia BR, Marques A, Peralta M, Marconcin P, Kliegel M, Ihle A. How Welfare Regimes Moderate the Associations Between Cognitive Aging, Education, and Occupation. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2022; 77:1615-1624. [PMID: 35090001 PMCID: PMC9757157 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbac013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Previous studies have shown the importance of individual markers of cognitive reserve, such as education and occupation, for cognitive health in old age. However, there has been only little investigation so far on how this relationship varies across contexts. METHODS We analyzed data from the Survey of Health, Ageing, and Retirement in Europe, using second-order latent growth models, to assess the moderating role of welfare regimes on the relationship between education and occupation skill level in explaining overall cognitive functioning and decline in old age. Our sample includes 13 European countries using data from 5 regular waves of the survey (2004-2007 and 2011-2015) and 2 retrospective ones (2008-2009 and 2017). Cognitive functioning was modeled as a latent variable measured by immediate and delayed recall, verbal fluency, and numeracy. RESULTS 74,193 participants were included from the survey. Our analysis showed that the association of education with cognition was weaker overall in Scandinavian countries, but stronger in Southern European countries, relative to Bismarckian ones. However, educational differences in the decline of cognition were more pronounced only in Scandinavian compared to Bismarckian countries. Additionally, higher-skilled occupations in Scandinavian countries had better overall functioning compared to the same occupations in Bismarckian countries, but there was no difference in the decline in cognitive functioning. DISCUSSION Our findings indicate that the associations of cognitive functioning and its decline with individuals' cognitive reserve markers (education and occupational skill level) vary according to welfare regimes, showing the importance of contextual factors in cognitive aging processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Orsholits
- Address correspondence to: Dan Orsholits, PhD, Centre for the Interdisciplinary Study of Gerontology and Vulnerability, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland. E-mail:
| | - Stéphane Cullati
- Population Health Laboratory, Department of Community Health, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland,Department of Readaptation and Geriatrics, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Paolo Ghisletta
- Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research LIVES—Overcoming vulnerability: Life Course Perspectives, Lausanne and Geneva, Switzerland,Department of Psychology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland,UniDistance Suisse, Brig, Switzerland
| | - Marja J Aartsen
- NOVA, Norwegian Social Research, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
| | - Michel Oris
- Centre for the Interdisciplinary Study of Gerontology and Vulnerability, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland,Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research LIVES—Overcoming vulnerability: Life Course Perspectives, Lausanne and Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Studer
- Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research LIVES—Overcoming vulnerability: Life Course Perspectives, Lausanne and Geneva, Switzerland,Institute of Demography and Socioeconomics, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Jürgen Maurer
- Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research LIVES—Overcoming vulnerability: Life Course Perspectives, Lausanne and Geneva, Switzerland,Department of Economics, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Laura Perna
- Department of Translational Research in Psychiatry, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany,Division of Mental Health of Older Adults, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Élvio R Gouveia
- Centre for the Interdisciplinary Study of Gerontology and Vulnerability, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland,Department of Physical Education and Sport, University of Madeira, Funchal, Portugal,LARSyS, Interactive Technologies Institute, Funchal, Portugal
| | - Bruna R Gouveia
- Centre for the Interdisciplinary Study of Gerontology and Vulnerability, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland,LARSyS, Interactive Technologies Institute, Funchal, Portugal,Health Administration Institute, Secretary of Health of the Autonomous Region of Madeira, Funchal, Portugal,Saint Joseph of Cluny Higher School of Nursing, Funchal, Portugal
| | - Adilson Marques
- CIPER, Faculty of Human Kinetics, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal,ISAMB, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Miguel Peralta
- CIPER, Faculty of Human Kinetics, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal,ISAMB, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Priscila Marconcin
- CIPER, Faculty of Human Kinetics, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Matthias Kliegel
- Centre for the Interdisciplinary Study of Gerontology and Vulnerability, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland,Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research LIVES—Overcoming vulnerability: Life Course Perspectives, Lausanne and Geneva, Switzerland,Department of Psychology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Ihle
- Centre for the Interdisciplinary Study of Gerontology and Vulnerability, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland,Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research LIVES—Overcoming vulnerability: Life Course Perspectives, Lausanne and Geneva, Switzerland,Department of Psychology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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MuhammadJoy TM. Does childhood financial status relate to satisfaction in late life: Findings from the Longitudinal Aging Study in India. AGING AND HEALTH RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ahr.2022.100054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
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Zülke AE, Luppa M, Röhr S, Weißenborn M, Bauer A, Samos FAZ, Kühne F, Zöllinger I, Döhring J, Brettschneider C, Oey A, Czock D, Frese T, Gensichen J, Haefeli WE, Hoffmann W, Kaduszkiewicz H, König HH, Thyrian JR, Wiese B, Riedel-Heller SG. Association of mental demands in the workplace with cognitive function in older adults at increased risk for dementia. BMC Geriatr 2021; 21:688. [PMID: 34893023 PMCID: PMC8665567 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-021-02653-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Growing evidence suggests a protective effect of high mental demands at work on cognitive function in later life. However, evidence on corresponding associations in older adults at increased risk for dementia is currently lacking. This study investigates the association between mental demands at work and cognitive functioning in the population of the AgeWell.de-trial. Methods Cross-sectional investigation of the association between global cognitive functioning (Montreal Cognitive Assessment) and mental demands at work in older individuals at increased risk for dementia (Cardiovascular Risk Factors, Aging, and Incidence of Dementia (CAIDE)score ≥ 9; n = 941, age: 60–77 years). Occupational information was matched to Occupational Information Network (O*NET)-descriptors. Associations between cognitive function and O*NET-indices executive, verbal and novelty were investigated using generalized linear models. Results Higher values of index verbal (b = .69, p = .002) were associated with better cognitive function when adjusting for covariates. No association was observed for indices executive (b = .37, p = .062) and novelty (b = .45, p = .119). Higher education, younger age, and employment were linked to better cognitive function, while preexisting medical conditions did not change the associations. Higher levels of depressive symptomatology were associated with worse cognitive function. Conclusions Higher levels of verbal demands at work were associated with better cognitive function for older adults with increased dementia risk. This suggests an advantage for older persons in jobs with high mental demands even after retirement and despite prevalent risk factors. Longitudinal studies are warranted to confirm these results and evaluate the potential of workplaces to prevent cognitive decline through increased mental demands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea E Zülke
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health (ISAP), Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, 04103, Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Melanie Luppa
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health (ISAP), Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Susanne Röhr
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health (ISAP), Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, 04103, Leipzig, Germany.,Global Brain Health Institute (GBHI), Trinity College Dublin, D02 PN40, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Marina Weißenborn
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacoepidemiology, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Alexander Bauer
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, 06112, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Franziska-Antonia Zora Samos
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, 06112, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Flora Kühne
- Institute of General Practice/Family Medicine, University Hospital of LMU Munich, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Isabel Zöllinger
- Institute of General Practice/Family Medicine, University Hospital of LMU Munich, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Juliane Döhring
- Institute of General Practice, University of Kiel, 24105, Kiel, Germany
| | - Christian Brettschneider
- Department of Health Economics and Health Service Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Anke Oey
- Institute for General Practice, Work Group Medical Statistics and IT-Infrastructure, Hannover Medical School, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - David Czock
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacoepidemiology, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Frese
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, 06112, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Jochen Gensichen
- Institute of General Practice/Family Medicine, University Hospital of LMU Munich, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Walter E Haefeli
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacoepidemiology, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Hoffmann
- Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE), site Rostock/ Greifswald, 17489, Greifswald, Germany.,Institute of Community Medicine, Dept. of Epidemiology of Health Care and Community Health, University Medicine Greifswald, 17487, Greifswald, Germany
| | | | - Hans-Helmut König
- Department of Health Economics and Health Service Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jochen René Thyrian
- Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE), site Rostock/ Greifswald, 17489, Greifswald, Germany.,Institute of Community Medicine, Dept. of Epidemiology of Health Care and Community Health, University Medicine Greifswald, 17487, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Birgitt Wiese
- Institute for General Practice, Work Group Medical Statistics and IT-Infrastructure, Hannover Medical School, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Steffi G Riedel-Heller
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health (ISAP), Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
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Turcotte V, Potvin O, Dadar M, Hudon C, Duchesne S. Birth Cohorts and Cognitive Reserve Influence Cognitive Performances in Older Adults. J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 85:587-604. [PMID: 34864667 DOI: 10.3233/jad-215044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence suggests birth cohort differences in cognitive performance of older adults. Proxies of cognitive reserve (CR), such as educational attainment and occupational complexity, could also partly account for these differences as they are influenced by the sociocultural environment of the birth cohorts. OBJECTIVE To predict cognitive performance using birth cohorts and CR and examine the moderating influence of CR on cognitive performance and structural brain health association. METHODS Using ADNI data (n = 1628), four birth cohorts were defined (1915-1928; 1929-1938; 1939-1945; 1946-1964). CR proxies were education, occupational complexity, and verbal IQ. We predicted baseline cognitive performances (verbal episodic memory; language and semantic memory; attention capacities; executive functions) using multiple linear regressions with CR, birth cohorts, age, structural brain health (total brain volume; total white matter hyperintensities volume) and vascular risk factors burden as predictors. Sex and CR interactions were also explored. RESULTS Recent birth cohorts, higher CR, and healthier brain structures predicted better performance in verbal episodic memory, language and semantic memory, and attention capacities, with large effect sizes. Better performance in executive functions was predicted by a higher CR and a larger total brain volume, with a small effect size. With equal score of CR, women outperformed men in verbal episodic memory and language and semantic memory in all cohorts. Higher level of CR predicted better performance in verbal episodic memory, only when total brain volume was lower. CONCLUSION Cohort differences in cognitive performance favor more recent birth cohorts and suggests that this association may be partly explained by proxies of CR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valérie Turcotte
- École de psychologie, Faculté des SciencesSociales, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada.,CERVO Brain Research Centre, Centre Intégré Universitaire en Santé et Services Sociaux de laCapitale Nationale, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Olivier Potvin
- CERVO Brain Research Centre, Centre Intégré Universitaire en Santé et Services Sociaux de laCapitale Nationale, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Mahsa Dadar
- CERVO Brain Research Centre, Centre Intégré Universitaire en Santé et Services Sociaux de laCapitale Nationale, Québec, QC, Canada.,Département de Radiologie et MédecineNucléaire, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Carol Hudon
- École de psychologie, Faculté des SciencesSociales, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada.,CERVO Brain Research Centre, Centre Intégré Universitaire en Santé et Services Sociaux de laCapitale Nationale, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Simon Duchesne
- CERVO Brain Research Centre, Centre Intégré Universitaire en Santé et Services Sociaux de laCapitale Nationale, Québec, QC, Canada.,Département de Radiologie et MédecineNucléaire, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
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Sörman DE, Stenling A, Sundström A, Rönnlund M, Vega-Mendoza M, Hansson P, Ljungberg JK. Occupational cognitive complexity and episodic memory in old age. INTELLIGENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intell.2021.101598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Mizuochi M, Raymo JM. Retirement type and cognitive functioning in Japan. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2021; 77:759-768. [PMID: 34626107 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbab187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES A growing literature examines the effect of retirement on cognitive function, but pays little attention to how this relationship may depend upon the nature of retirement. Of particular importance is the growing prevalence of gradual retirement characterized by continued employment - either with a new employer or with the same employer - after retiring from a career job. METHODS We use data from men and women aged 50 or older in the Japanese Study of Aging and Retirement to examine the effects of full retirement, partial retirement with the same employer, and partial retirement with a new employer on cognitive function. Our analyses consider the moderating role of career job complexity and exploit distinctive features of the Japanese public pension and mandatory retirement systems to estimate the causal effect of retirement type on cognition. RESULTS Results indicate that partial retirement with the same employer has a significant and adverse effect on cognitive function (relative to those not yet retired). In contrast, those who experienced either full retirement or partial retirement with a new employer were, on average, no different from those still in their career job. Partial retirement with a new employer has a beneficial effect on cognition among those who had a high complexity career job. DISCUSSION Results are consistent with the idea that novel work exposures and experiences have a beneficial effect on cognition. They also suggest that ongoing policy efforts to promote partial retirement with the same employer may have unexpected adverse implications for cognitive health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - James M Raymo
- Department of Sociology and Office of Population Research, Princeton University, USA
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Inoue A, Eguchi H, Kachi Y, Tsutsumi A. Organizational Justice and Cognitive Failures in Japanese Employees: A Cross-Sectional Study. J Occup Environ Med 2021; 63:901-906. [PMID: 34016914 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000002268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We examined the association of organizational justice (ie, procedural justice and interactional justice) with cognitive failures, and the mediation effect of psychological distress on this association in Japanese employees. METHODS A total of 189 men and 35 women from two sites of a manufacturing company in Japan were surveyed using a self-administered web-based questionnaire. A multiple mediation analysis was conducted. RESULTS A significant negative total effect of procedural justice on cognitive failures was observed (c = -0.180 [95% confidence interval: -0.315 to -0.044]). Furthermore, the mediation effect of psychological distress was significant (c-c' = -0.213 [95% confidence interval: -0.323 to -0.115]). Similar patterns were observed for interactional justice. CONCLUSIONS Employees may be more likely to experience cognitive failures in daily activities in work settings where organizational justice is lower, which seems to be explained by psychological distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akiomi Inoue
- Institutional Research Center, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan (Dr Inoue), Department of Mental Health, Institute of Industrial Ecological Sciences, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan (Prof Eguchi), Department of Public Health, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan (Dr Kachi and Prof Tsutsumi)
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Seeman M, Merkin SS, Karlamangla A, Koretz B, Grzywacz JG, Lachman M, Seeman T. On the Biopsychosocial Costs of Alienated Labor. WORK, EMPLOYMENT & SOCIETY : A JOURNAL OF THE BRITISH SOCIOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION 2021; 35:891-913. [PMID: 34707329 PMCID: PMC8547591 DOI: 10.1177/0950017020952662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Data from the national, longitudinal Mid-Life in the US (MIDUS) study were used to examine work alienation and its relationship to biological health as well as psychological and social functioning. The alienation measure focuses on the autonomy and creativity the work provides. We hypothesized that alienated work would have negative associations with each of the three domains: in biology, higher 'allostatic load' (biological dysregulation); in psychology, poorer cognitive performance; and socially, negative impacts on family life. The outcomes are generally as predicted, though there are notable differences for men and women.
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Hyun J, Katz MJ, Lipton RB, Sliwinski MJ. Mentally Challenging Occupations Are Associated With More Rapid Cognitive Decline at Later Stages of Cognitive Aging. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2021; 76:671-680. [PMID: 31560775 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbz122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Engaging in mentally challenging activities is associated with reduced risk for cognitive impairment and dementia; however, its association with rates of cognitive decline has been inconsistent. The aim of this study is to test whether working in mentally challenging occupations is related to rates of cognitive change at later older adulthood. METHOD The sample consisted of 1,520 individuals (baseline mean age = 78.6 ± 5.1, range = 64-100) from the Einstein Aging Study. Occupation information of each participant was collected retrospectively and linked with the substantive complexity of work score from the Dictionary of Occupational Titles. Cognitive changes in memory, speed, and executive function (EF) domains were represented using two time metrics (i.e., time from retirement, time from study enrollment). RESULTS Results from mixed models showed that occupational complexity was associated with significantly faster rates of cognitive decline in speed and EF in the "time from retirement" model but not in the "time from baseline" model. Despite faster cognitive loss, the protective effect of occupational complexity persisted for decades after retirement due to higher initial levels of cognition. DISCUSSION The result suggests that protective factors for cognitive health may be associated with delayed onset but more rapid cognitive decline afterwards at later stages of cognitive aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinshil Hyun
- Saul R. Korey Department of Neurology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY
| | - Mindy J Katz
- Saul R. Korey Department of Neurology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY
| | - Richard B Lipton
- Saul R. Korey Department of Neurology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY
| | - Martin J Sliwinski
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies and Center for Healthy Aging, Pennsylvania State University, University Park
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Hakiki B, Pancani S, Portaccio E, Molino-Lova R, Sofi F, Macchi C, Cecchi F. Impact of occupational complexity on cognitive decline in the oldest-old. Aging Ment Health 2021; 25:1630-1635. [PMID: 32252551 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2020.1746739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The theory of "Cognitive Reserve" assumes that premorbid factors such as high educational and occupational attainment may enable a better way of coping with brain damage. It has been suggested that more stimulating lifestyles, including more complex work environments, may provide a buffer against cognitive decline in later life. This study aimed to investigate the association between occupational history and cognitive decline in a large cohort of Italian oldest-old. METHODS 392 individuals (266 women/126 men, mean age 93 ± 3 years) enrolled in the "Mugello study" provided information about their work history. Jobs were classified in nine categories, according to the level of expertise required to perform them, as suggested by the Italian National Institute for Statistics (ISTAT). In addition, socio-demographic characteristics, comorbidities, level of independence, depression, and cognitive status were assessed. The presence of dementia was established based on cognitive status and independence in performing four selected instrumental activities of daily living (ability to manage telephone, transportation, medications, and budget). RESULTS Neither work complexity (p = 0.995) nor work duration (p = 0.701) showed a significant effect on the likelihood of presenting a lower cognitive profile or developing dementia (p = 0.385 and p = 0.096, for work complexity and work duration, respectively). CONCLUSION In the observed sample of oldest-old individuals, cognitive decline did not seem to be influenced by cognitive reserve as assessed through the evaluation of cognitive status and level of independence. It is conceivable that in this population, the decline of the brain reserve has a preponderant role in the definition of the cognitive profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahia Hakiki
- Don Carlo Gnocchi Foundation, IRCSS, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Emilio Portaccio
- SOC Neurologia, Ospedale San Giovanni di Dio, AUSL Toscana Centro, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Sofi
- Don Carlo Gnocchi Foundation, IRCSS, Florence, Italy.,Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.,Clinical Nutrition Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Claudio Macchi
- Don Carlo Gnocchi Foundation, IRCSS, Florence, Italy.,Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Lee YJ, Braun KL, Wu YY, Burrage R, Muneoka S, Browne C, Mokuau NK, Terada TM, Hossain MD. Physical Activity and Health Among Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander Older Adults. J Aging Health 2021; 34:120-129. [PMID: 34376094 DOI: 10.1177/08982643211032468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander (NHPI) older adults often experience social disadvantages and poor health outcomes. Physical activity has been associated with better health in other racial groups, but limited studies have examined these associations in NHPI older adults. Methods: Using data from the 2014 Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander National Health Interview Survey (n = 1,045), logistic regression models examined associations between physical activity and memory/psychological distress/self-rated health. Results: Sufficient levels of physical activity were associated with lower odds of memory problems, serious psychological distress, and poor/fair self-rated health. Unfortunately, only half of the sample reported sufficient physical activity and approximately 30% reported none. Also, 78% of the sample was estimated to be overweight/obese, and 29% had diabetes. Discussion: Culturally-appropriate interventions are recommended to increase physical activity in this population, which could also help reduce high rates of overweight/obesity and diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeonjung J Lee
- Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health, 3939University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Kathryn L Braun
- Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health, 3939University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Yan Yan Wu
- Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health, 3939University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Rachel Burrage
- Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health, 3939University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Shelley Muneoka
- Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health, 3939University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Colette Browne
- Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health, 3939University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Noreen K Mokuau
- Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health, 3939University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Tyran M Terada
- Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health, 3939University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Mohammad D Hossain
- Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health, 3939University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES Research shows that mental demands at work affect later-life cognitive functioning and dementia risk, but systematic assessment of protective mental work demands (PMWDs) is still missing. The goal of this research was to develop a questionnaire to assess PMWDs. DESIGN The instrument was developed in accordance with internationally recognized scientific standards comprising conceptualization, pretesting, and validation via confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), principal component analysis (PCA), and multiple regression analyses. PARTICIPANTS We included 346 participants, 72.3% female, with an average age of 56.3 years. MEASUREMENT Item pool, sociodemographic questions, and cognitive tests: Trail-Making Test A/B, Word List Recall, Verbal Fluency Test, Benton Visual Retention Test, Reading Minds in the Eyes Test. RESULTS CFAs of eight existing PMWD-concepts revealed weaker fit indices than PCA of the item pool that resulted in five concepts. We computed multivariate regression analyses with all 13 PMWD-concepts as predictors of cognitive functioning. After removing PMWD-concepts that predicted less than two cognitive test scores and excluding others due to overlapping items, the final questionnaire contained four PMWD-concepts: Mental Workload (three items, Cronbach's α = .58), Verbal Demands (four, Cronbach's α = .74), Information Load (six, Cronbach's α = .83), and Extended Job Control (six, Cronbach's α = .83). CONCLUSIONS The PMWD-Questionnaire intends to assess protective mental demands at the workplace. Information processing demands and job control make up the primary components emphasizing their relevance regarding cognitive health in old age. Long-term follow-up studies will need to validate construct validity with respect to dementia risk.
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Measuring work-related mental work demands: work as a protective factor for cognitive loss. Int Psychogeriatr 2021; 33:659-660. [PMID: 34308817 DOI: 10.1017/s1041610220004068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Hale JM, Bijlsma MJ, Lorenti A. Does postponing retirement affect cognitive function? A counterfactual experiment to disentangle life course risk factors. SSM Popul Health 2021; 15:100855. [PMID: 34258375 PMCID: PMC8255239 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2021.100855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Evidence suggests that contemporaneous labor force participation affects cognitive function; however, it is unclear whether it is employment itself or endogenous factors related to individuals’ likelihood of employment that protects against cognitive decline. We exploit innovations in counterfactual causal inference to disentangle the effect of postponing retirement on later-life cognitive function from the effects of other life-course factors. With the U.S. Health and Retirement Study (1996–2014, n = 20,469), we use the parametric g-formula to estimate the effect of postponing retirement to age 67. We also study whether the benefit of postponing retirement is affected by gender, education, and/or occupation, and whether retirement affects cognitive function through depressive symptoms or comorbidities. We find that postponing retirement is protective against cognitive decline, accounting for other life-course factors (population: 0.34, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.20,0.47; individual: 0.43, 95% CI: 0.26,0.60). The extent of the protective effect depends on subgroup, with the highest educated experiencing the greatest mitigation of cognitive decline (individual: 50%, 95% CI: 32%,71%). By using innovative models that better reflect the empirical reality of interconnected life-course processes, this work makes progress in understanding how retirement affects cognitive function. Research is inconclusive as to employments' protection against cognitive decline. Causal inference models can better reflect interconnected life-course processes. The parametric g-formula shows a substantial protective effect of ongoing employment. Protective effect holds for all subgroups, but is greatest for the highest educated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jo Mhairi Hale
- School of Geography and Sustainable Development, University of St Andrews, Scotland, UK.,Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research, Rostock, Germany
| | - Maarten J Bijlsma
- Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research, Rostock, Germany.,Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, Unit Pharmacotherapy, Epidemiology & Economics (PTEE), University of Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Angelo Lorenti
- Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research, Rostock, Germany
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Lee H, Ryan LH, Ofstedal MB, Smith J. Multigenerational Households During Childhood and Trajectories of Cognitive Functioning Among U.S. Older Adults. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2021; 76:1161-1172. [PMID: 32951054 PMCID: PMC8200351 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbaa165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Family structure in childhood influences early brain development and cognitive performance in adulthood. Much less is known about its long-term impact on later-life cognitive functioning. We extend the two-generation family structure approach to investigate the potential contribution of living with grandparents in multigenerational households to differences in cognitive functioning at older ages. METHODS Data were drawn from 9 waves of the Health and Retirement Study (1998-2014) merged with newly collected childhood family history data. Five types of family structure were assessed: two-parent households, two-parent households with grandparents, single-parent households, single-parent households with grandparents, and grandparent-headed households. Growth curve models were used to estimate trajectories of cognitive functioning over time. RESULTS Childhood family structure was significantly associated with level of cognitive functioning, but not to rate of cognitive decline. Relative to those from two-parent households, individuals who grew up in multigenerational households showed higher levels of cognitive functioning, including those living with a single parent and grandparents. Those who lived with a single parent alone were the most disadvantaged. The effects of these multigenerational households persisted net of childhood and adulthood socioeconomic status and health outcomes. DISCUSSION Grandparent coresidence may cultivate a socially enriched home environment, providing resources and protection for early cognitive development that could persist throughout life. Multigenerational living arrangements are likely to increase as the contemporary population ages. More research needs to be done to understand the impact of these living arrangements on future generations' brain health and cognitive aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haena Lee
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
| | - Lindsay H Ryan
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
| | | | - Jacqui Smith
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
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