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"Critical loss" in the eighth and ninth decades
Journal of Gerontology
|March 1, 1981
Summary
Critical loss did not predict survival in older adults. However, organic brain syndrome (OBS) was linked to mortality, with survivors showing better cognitive function over time.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Neuropsychology
- Psychiatric Epidemiology
Background:
- Previous research suggested a link between
- critical loss
- and 5-year survivorship.
- The current study investigates this relationship in individuals in their eighth and ninth decades of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if "critical loss" predicts survivorship in very old adults.
- To explore the association between organic brain syndrome (OBS) and mortality in this age group.
- To examine cognitive decline rates in survivors versus non-survivors.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of data from the New York State Psychiatric Institute Twin study.
- Examined 22 subjects (ages 83-99) in 1973, with follow-up data by 1978.
- Assessed "critical loss" and presence/absence of OBS, alongside cognitive tests (Vocabulary, Similarities, Digit Symbol Substitution).
Main Results:
- "Critical loss" did not differentiate between survivors and decedents.
- The presence of OBS significantly distinguished decedents (7/11) from survivors (0/8).
- Survivors exhibited higher mean scores on cognitive tests and no significant difference in the rate of decline compared to non-survivors.
Conclusions:
- "Critical loss" is not a predictor of long-term survival in the very old.
- Organic brain syndrome (OBS) is a significant indicator of mortality in advanced age.
- Cognitive function may be preserved in survivors, despite aging-related changes.