Physical Health Characteristics of Cognitively Successful SuperAgers

 
   Lead Investigator:    Stephanie Kielb
   Institution      :    Northwestern University
   E-Mail           :    stephaniekielb2012@u.northwestern.edu
   Proposal ID      :    513



   Proposal Description:
   The goal of this project is to explore the relationship between physical and cognitive health in adults over age 80. Health histories will be compared between a sample of nondemented NACC participants and Northwestern University???s cohort of SuperAgers ??? adults over age 80 with superior episodic memory abilities. Outcomes of particular interest include cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and metabolic diseases as well as psychiatric and substance use disorders. Prior studies indicate that SuperAgers have unique neuroanatomical, histopathological, and psychosocial features compared to their age-matched, cognitively average peers. To date, SuperAgers have not been characterized with regard to their physical health. Results will provide information on the impact of physical health for the preservation of cognitive abilities in advanced age.