Research

Project 3


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Neuropsychological Correlates of Functional Capacity

Abstract:

Two studies are proposed in Project 3 to measure, evaluate, and predict patterns of functional capacity in the oldest old. Study 1 is designed to examine profiles of age differences in functional capacity as well as to test hypotheses regarding the convergent validity of the functional capacity measures. Study 1 will provide information on profiles of centenarians’ functional capacity, including those who are visually and hearing impaired and demented, as well as measurement issues (and problems) relating to functional capacity. This information will be used in Study 2A on neuropsychological correlates of functional capacity. While global cognitive status (typically using the MMSE) has been investigated in several studies of centenarians, little is known about the relationship between specific cognitive mechanisms and functional capacity in centenarians. First, we aim to characterize BADL and IADL capacity in centenarians to identify functional areas that could be targeted for intervention. Second, we aim to examine the relationships of specific neuropsychological mechanisms, especially motor-dependent and motor-independent executive functioning, visuospatial abilities, and memory functioning with everyday functional capacities. If central executive functions, visuospatial skills, and/or memory functioning could account for meaningful amounts of variance in functional capacity, then this finding could have significance in dealing with remediation and compensation strategies.


Study 2B will seek to determine whether and to what extent there are age-specific impacts of physical functioning, sensory impairment, depression, and specific cognitive abilities on levels of adaptive functioning. We will rely upon common data, in addition to data collected as part of other projects in our analysis. These include the sections from the physical examination on visual and hearing acuity, tactile acuity, neuro-musculoskeletal functions, general cognitive functioning, depression and demographic information. For our exploratory hypothesis testing, specific blood chemistry parameters, medication, and health history will be employed. These common data will be combined with the data collected for this project. Results will be analyzed using descriptive analyses and hierarchical multiple regression and structural equation modeling.

Project 3 Investigators:

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Leonard W. Poon, Ph.D.
Project Leader
University of Georgia

 



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John L. Woodard, Ph.D.
Project Co-Leader
Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science

 


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Mary Ann Johnson, Ph.D.
Co-Investigator
University of Georgia



 

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Dorothy Hausman, Ph.D.
Co-Investigator
University of Georgia

 



 

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L. Stephen Miller, Ph.D.
Co-Investigator
University of Georgia

 


 

 

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Ilene C. Siegler, Ph.D., MPH
Co-Investigator
Duke University

 



 

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M. Elaine Cress, Ph.D.
Co-Investigator
University of Georgia

 



 

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Zeb Burrell, M.D.
Co-Investigator
University of Georgia

 


 

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Lenette Burrell, R.N., M.S.N., Ed.D.
Co-Investigator
University of Georgia

 

 


 
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Joyce S. Tenover, M.D., Ph.D.
Co-Investigator
Emory University 





 
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Merrill F. Elias, Ph.D.
Consultant
University of Maine


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