Perceived Control, Cognitive Training, and Incident Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias in the ACTIVE Study

Greater perception of control over important life outcomes has been linked to better cognitive performance and greater benefits from cognitive training interventions among older adults. However, it is not yet known whether perceived control predicts incident Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) or influences links between cognitive training and ADRD incidence.

Data were obtained from 2,021 participants in the Advanced Cognitive Training for Independent and Vital Elderly (ACTIVE) trial. Baseline perceived control was measured with the Personality in Intellectual Aging Contexts Inventory. Incident diagnosed ADRD over 20 years was operationalized using Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services claims data. Main effects of perceived control and interactions between perceived control and intervention group (reasoning, memory, speed, control) on diagnosed ADRD incidence were estimated using cause-specific hazard models.

Greater perceived control at study baseline was associated with reduced hazard of ADRD. Perceived control did not moderate associations between intervention group and time to ADRD diagnosis.

Strengthening perceived control through individual and/or environmental interventions may lower ADRD risk.