The Lingering Effects of Early Life Adversity on Cognitive Function among Older Black Americans

Research shows that older Black Americans have increased risk for poor cognitive function in later life. In addition, they are also more likely to report experiencing early life adversity (ELA). However, there is limited research that examines the role of ELA on later life cognitive function among this population. Utilizing both a cumulative score and a person-centered approach, this study examines whether ELA is associated with later life cognition among Black adults aged 51 and older (N = 2,749). To employ a person-centered approach, we identified three distinct aspects of ELA related to childhood socioeconomic, physical, and psychosocial adversities. This study also examines moderating (e.g., gender, birthplace, birth cohort, educational attainment) and mediating (e.g., educational attainment) factors of this relationship. Data are from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS). The results show that experiencing early life psychosocial adversity is associated with a decline in later life cognitive function. Birth cohort and educational attainment moderate the association between ELA and later life cognition. Education also mediates the relationship. Taken together, the findings provide insight into the importance of considering early life factors when investigating cognitive health among older Black Americans.