Trajectories of cognitive ability and attitudes toward own aging in older adults: a conditional parallel latent growth model

Good cognitive function and positive attitudes toward own aging (ATOA) are important factors in promoting healthy aging. However, existing research has rarely explored the interrelationship between the developmental trajectories of cognitive ability and ATOA in older adults. Moreover, studies on the association between subjective socioeconomic status (SSS) and these two trajectories are also limited. This study utilized data from 741 older adults who participated in three waves of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (2011, 2014, and 2017). Cognitive ability was assessed with the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), ATOA with a two-item ATOA scale, and SSS with a single self-rated item. Linear latent growth models were applied to analyze the developmental trajectories of cognitive ability and ATOA. Additionally, this study used the (conditional) parallel latent growth model to examine the associations between these two trajectories, as well as the relationship between baseline SSS and the two trajectories. This study found that both cognitive ability and ATOA in older adults decline linearly with age. In the parallel latent growth model, higher baseline cognitive level predicted a more positive baseline ATOA and a slower rate of decline in ATOA. However, under the current reverse model specification, baseline ATOA or its rate of decline did not significantly predict cognitive ability (including both baseline level and rate of decline). Additionally, higher baseline SSS predicted higher baseline cognitive level and a more positive baseline ATOA. Meanwhile, higher baseline SSS was also linked to a slower rate of cognitive decline. This study suggests a close relationship between the trajectories of cognitive ability and ATOA in older adults. As an important social-psychological variable, SSS plays a significant role in both trajectories. Therefore, all parties in society should increase attention to vulnerable groups among older adults, focus on preserving their cognitive abilities, and help them develop positive ATOA, in order to promote healthy aging.