Sociodemographic factors, cognitive performance and cognitive reserve in brazilian High Performance Older Adults (HPOAs)

Given the increasing aging population, investigating the cognitive functioning of older adults is crucial. Various factors are associated with both cognitive decline and preservation. High Performance Older Adults (HPOAs) are a subset of older individuals demonstrating exceptional cognitive abilities, often exhibiting phenotypic characteristics such as superior cognitive skills. This study aims to investigate the relationship between sociodemographic factors, cognitive reserve and cognitive performance in a sample of brazilian older adults identified as having high cognitive abilities. To examine this phenomenon, data were collected via a sociodemographic questionnaire and cognitive assessments. Of an initial sample of 62 participants, 54 completed the study (38.8% men, 61.1% women). Analysis revealed 12 participants (22.2%) met HPOA criteria, while 42 (77.7%) were classified as Standard Performance Older Adults (SPOAs). HPOAs demonstrated significantly better performance on the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT) in trials A1-A5, A6, A7, and Recognition Memory (p < 0.001); on the Rey Complex Figure in Immediate and Delayed Recall (p = 0.006), and on the Trail Making Test A (TMT A) (p = 0.003). Significant differences were also found in the analysis items of the Cognitive Reserve Scale (CRS) (p < 0.001; p = 0.008; p = 0.002). The findings reveal that HPOAs exhibit superior performance in episodic memory, attention and processing speed tasks. The model coefficients in logistic regression revealed a statistically significant association between Total Points in CRS and HPOA (β = 0.0508, standard error = 0.0147, z = 3.45, p < 0.001). These results emphasize the importance of cognitive reserve for preserving cognitive performance in the elderly. New research should aim to elucidate the complex interplay of markers associated with HPOAs, employing rigorous research protocols sensitive to sociocultural context.