Middle age self‐report risk score predicts cognitive functioning and dementia in 20–40 years. Issue 1 (14th September 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Vuoksimaa, Eero; Rinne, Juha O.; Lindgren, Noora; Heikkilä, Kauko; Koskenvuo, Markku; Kaprio, Jaakko
• Is Part Of: Alzheimer's & dementia. Volume 4:Issue 1(2016)
• Page Start: 118
• Page End: 125
• Publication Date: 2016-09-14
• Subjects: Education -- Early identification -- Cognitive reserve -- Dementia -- Middle age -- Occupation -- Risk score -- Twins; Alzheimer's disease -- Periodicals; Alzheimer's disease -- Diagnosis -- Periodicals; Dementia -- Periodicals; Dementia -- Diagnosis -- Periodicals; 616.831
• DOI: 10.1016/j.dadm.2016.08.003
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2352-8729

Abstract

Abstract: Introduction: On the basis of the proxy measures of cognitive reserve, we created a middle age self‐report risk score for early prediction of dementia. Methods: We used a longitudinal population‐based study of 2602 individuals with a replication sample (N = 1011). Risk score at a mean age of 47 years was based on questions on educational and occupational attainments. Cognitive status at a mean age of 74 was determined via two validated telephone instruments. Results: The prevalence of dementia was 10% after a mean follow‐up of 28 years. Risk score was a good predictor of dementia: area under the curve = 0.77 (95% confidence interval, 0.74–0.80). The risk of dementia decreased as a function of risk score from 36% to 0%. The risk score was significantly associated with cognition after a mean follow‐up of 39 years in the replication sample. Discussion: Self‐report risk score predicted cognitive functioning and dementia risk 20–40 years later. Highlights: We created a middle age self‐report risk score that predicts dementia in 20–40 years. Risk score consisted of questions on educational and occupational attainments. These measures are considered as proxies of cognitive reserve. Risk score is easily acquired low‐cost tool for early identification of dementia risk. Educational and occupational attainments build cognitive reserve against dementia.