Dawn E. Alley|Kristen Suthers|Eileen M. Crimmins
Education and Cognitive Decline in Older Americans
University of Pennsylvania|Action Network|University of Southern California
although education consistently related better cognitive performance findings relationship education ageassociated cognitive change conflicting using measures multiple cognitive domains four waves asset health dynamics oldest old study representative sample americans aged 70 years older authors performed growth curve modeling examine relationships education initial cognitive score rate decline cognitive function years education linked better initial performance cognitive tests higher levels education linked slower decline mental status however education unrelated rate decline working memory education associated somewhat faster cognitive decline measures verbal memory findings highlight role earlylife experiences longterm cognitive performance also oldage cognitive trajectories