Cognitive Performance and Life Satisfaction in Centenarians
Author Information
Author(s): Alex J. Bishop, Peter Martin, Leonard Poon, Mary Ann Johnson
Primary Institution: Oklahoma State University
Hypothesis
Greater cognitive impairment would diminish feelings of positive affect but increase negative affect over time.
Conclusion
Cognitive impairment negatively affects life satisfaction among centenarians, with positive emotions playing a crucial role in this relationship.
Supporting Evidence
- Negative affect at Time 1 was associated with lower life satisfaction at Time 1.
- Cognitive impairment at Time 2 was associated with decreased positive emotionality at Time 2.
- Greater positive affect at Time 2 was associated with greater satisfaction with life at Time 2.
Takeaway
This study shows that when older people have trouble thinking, they often feel less happy and satisfied with life, but feeling good can help them feel better about life.
Methodology
Secondary longitudinal analysis of data from the Georgia Centenarian Study, with cognitive performance, positive and negative affect, and life satisfaction assessed at two time points.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the exclusion of cognitively impaired individuals and reliance on self-reported measures.
Limitations
The study used convenience sampling and only included cognitively intact centenarians, which may limit generalizability.
Participant Demographics
Participants were primarily widowed, with low education levels and annual incomes.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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