Stability of Cognitive Ability and Effect of Education Over 58 Years
Author Information
Author(s): Arpawong Thalida Em, Huh Jimi, Gruenewald Tara, Fisher Gwenith, Manly Jennifer, Seblova Dominika, Peters Kelly, Gatz Margaret
Primary Institution: University of Southern California
Hypothesis
Does education associate with better retention of cognitive abilities from adolescence to older adulthood?
Conclusion
Cognitive abilities remain stable from adolescence to older adulthood, and education has varying benefits based on initial cognitive levels and sex.
Supporting Evidence
- Cognitive abilities were assessed 58 years apart.
- Education predicted higher cognitive ability in older age.
- The effect of education on cognitive ability was diminished for those with higher initial cognitive scores.
- The benefits of education varied by sex.
Takeaway
This study shows that what you learn in school helps you think better when you're older, but it helps some people more than others.
Methodology
The study used confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling to assess cognitive abilities over time.
Participant Demographics
Participants were aged 71 to 79, with data collected from both men and women.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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