Healthy ageing in the Nun Study: definition and neuropathologic correlates.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Although the concept of healthy ageing has stimulated considerable interest, no generally accepted definition has been developed nor has its biological basis been determined.

Objective

To develop a definition of healthy ageing and investigate its association with longevity and neuropathology.

Methods

Analyses were based on cognitive, physical, and post-mortem assessments from 1991 to 1998 in the Nun Study, a longitudinal study of ageing in participants 75+ years at baseline. We defined three mutually exclusive levels of healthy ageing (excellent, very good, and good) based on measures of global cognitive function, short-term memory, basic and instrumental activities of daily living, and self-rated function. Mortality analyses were based on 636 participants;

SUBMITTER: Tyas SL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2243258 | biostudies-literature | 2007 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature