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Assessment of Age-related Changes in Cognitive Functions Using EmoCogMeter, a Novel Tablet-computer Based Approach
Published on: February 14, 2014
Racial and social correlates of age-related changes in functioning
1Department of Sociology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio.
Journal of Gerontology
|September 1, 1992
Summary
Black and non-Black survivors show differing trajectories in functioning over time. Despite controlling for socioeconomic factors, Black individuals reported poorer functional status, though age-related changes did not differ between groups.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology and Public Health
- Sociology of Aging
- Health Disparities Research
Background:
- Understanding age-related functional decline is crucial for public health.
- Racial and socioeconomic disparities may influence health trajectories in later life.
- Previous research suggests cumulative disadvantages may impact long-term functioning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine social and racial differences in age-related changes in functioning.
- To assess variations in trajectories of functional impairment across different demographic groups.
- To test the multiple-jeopardy hypothesis regarding age changes in functioning.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal study using six waves of data over a decade.
- Panel of 5,196 non-Black and 566 Black survivors.
- Growth curve analysis to model trajectories of physical functioning, self-care capacity, and self-rated well-being.
Main Results:
- Functional trajectories varied significantly across social groups (race, socioeconomic status, gender, education).
- Trajectories were non-linear, with substantial within-group variability observed.
- Black individuals reported poorer functional status than non-Black individuals, even after controlling for income and education.
Conclusions:
- While socioeconomic factors influence functional trajectories, race remains a significant predictor of poorer functional status.
- Age-related changes in functioning did not differ between Black and non-Black subpanels, challenging the multiple-jeopardy hypothesis.
- Significant within-group variability highlights the need for nuanced approaches to understanding aging and health.
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