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No clear associations between subjective memory concerns and subsequent change in cognitive function: the PATH through life study

Author

Listed:
  • Ying Xu

    (Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA)
    University of New South Wales)

  • Jane Warwick

    (University of Warwick)

  • Ranmalee Eramudugolla

    (Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA)
    University of New South Wales)

  • Hamidul Huque

    (Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA)
    University of New South Wales)

  • Kaarin J. Anstey

    (Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA)
    University of New South Wales)

  • Ruth Peters

    (Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA)
    University of New South Wales
    Imperial College London)

Abstract

The literature on subjective memory concerns (SMC) as a predictor for future cognitive decline is varied. Furthermore, recent research has pointed to additional complexity arising from variability in the experience of SMC themselves (i.e. whether they are remitting or sustained over time). We investigated the associations between SMC and objectively measured cognition in an Australian population-based cohort. Four waves (4-year intervals between waves) of data from 1236 participants (aged 62.4 ± 1.5 years, 53% male) were used. We categorized participants as experiencing SMC, when they indicated that their memory problems might interfere with their day-to-day life and/or they had seen a doctor about their memory. SMC was categorized as “no” reported SMC, “remitting”, “new-onset” or “sustained” SMC. Cognitive assessment of immediate and delayed recall, working memory, psychomotor speed, attention and processing speed were assessed using a neuropsychological battery. Eighteen percent of participants were characterised as having SMC: 6% (77) “remitting”, 6% (77) “new-onset” and 6% (69) “sustained” SMC. There was no consistent evidence for an association between SMC and subsequent decline in cognition. However, SMC was associated with poorer performance on contemporaneous tasks of attention and processing speed compared to “no” SMC. Asking about SMC may indicate a current decline in cognitive function but, in this sample at least, did not indicate an increased risk of future decline.

Suggested Citation

  • Ying Xu & Jane Warwick & Ranmalee Eramudugolla & Hamidul Huque & Kaarin J. Anstey & Ruth Peters, 2022. "No clear associations between subjective memory concerns and subsequent change in cognitive function: the PATH through life study," European Journal of Ageing, Springer, vol. 19(4), pages 1181-1188, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:eujoag:v:19:y:2022:i:4:d:10.1007_s10433-022-00694-2
    DOI: 10.1007/s10433-022-00694-2
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Joseph W. Jones & Elizabeth B. Fauth & Marie Ernsth Bravell & Boo Johansson & Thomas Ledermann, 2019. "Longitudinal correspondence between subjective and objective memory in the oldest old: A parallel process model by gender," European Journal of Ageing, Springer, vol. 16(3), pages 317-326, September.
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