Cross-National Differences in Cognitive Decline
Author Information
Author(s): Han Chengming, Bramajo Octavio, Downer Brian
Primary Institution: The University of Texas Medical Branch
Hypothesis
This paper explores cross national differences in cognitive decline between adults older than 50 years in the U.S., Mexico, and China.
Conclusion
Middle-aged and older adults in Mexico and China experienced faster decline in verbal functioning after age 50 than in the US.
Supporting Evidence
- HRS respondents had the highest levels of education.
- Higher educational attainment was associated with higher verbal functioning.
- The education gradient was most pronounced in CHARLS.
- Verbal functioning decline was steeper in respondents aged over 60 years in MHAS and CHARLS compared to HRS.
- MHAS and CHARLS respondents aged 50-60 and 76+ showed slower cognitive decline after adjusting for education.
Takeaway
Older people in Mexico and China tend to lose their ability to speak clearly faster than those in the U.S., partly because they have less education.
Methodology
Data were drawn from multiple studies and multilevel models were used to estimate changes in verbal function across age and education groups.
Limitations
The study may not account for all factors influencing cognitive decline across different countries.
Participant Demographics
Adults older than 50 years from the U.S., Mexico, and China.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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