The Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam: cohort update 2019 and additional data collections

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Epidemiology
• Public Health

Background:

• The Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam (LASA) is a long-standing, nationally representative cohort study initiated in 1992.
• It investigates the determinants, trajectories, and consequences of functioning in older adults (initially aged 55-84 years).
• LASA's multidisciplinary approach and extensive follow-up (over 25 years) provide robust data on aging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an update on the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam (LASA) design and methodologies.
• To detail recent developments, including enhanced data collection and cohort expansion.
• To ensure continued relevance and comprehensive understanding of aging processes.

Main Methods:

• Prospective cohort study with a cohort-sequential design.
• Regular three-yearly data collection waves supplemented by additional measurements for the oldest old (2016-2019).
• Inclusion of a new cohort of older Turkish and Moroccan migrants to enhance diversity.

Main Results:

• The study has generated over 600 publications, contributing significantly to the understanding of aging.
• Recent data collection has captured more frequent changes in the oldest old.
• The inclusion of migrant cohorts expands the generalizability of findings.

Conclusions:

• The LASA study continues to be a vital resource for aging research.
• Methodological updates enhance the capacity to study dynamic changes in functioning.
• The expanded cohort ensures a more inclusive and representative understanding of aging in the Netherlands.