Work

Health Behaviors and Executive Function in Late Adulthood: A Time-Varying Effect Modeling Analysis

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Objective Cognitive decline in older adults is a public health issue, with modifiable factors like obesity and sleep potentially influencing this trajectory. Previous research on their relationship with executive function has shown mixed results, particularly across older adulthood. Methods This study utilized time-varying effect modeling (TVEM) to assess the impact of body mass index (BMI) and sleep on executive function in older adults aged 60 to 79, using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011–2012 and 2013–2014 cycles ( N = 2543). Executive function was evaluated using the Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST). Results Findings indicated that while BMI did not significantly affect cognition, adequate sleep (7–8 hours) was linked to better executive function, especially in individuals aged 63 to 65. Conclusion These results highlight sleep’s importance for cognitive health and suggest interventions focusing on sleep and weight management to mitigate age-related cognitive decline.

Source: Journal of Aging and Health

DOI: 10.1177/08982643251319089

Authors: Myungjin Jung, Heontae Kim, Zakary Patrick, Seomgyun Lee

Institutions: University of North Texas, Oklahoma State University, University of Mississippi, Jeonbuk National University

Language: English

Topic: Dementia and Cognitive Impairment Research

Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: bronze

OpenAlex ID: W4407151679

FWCI: 0.618

Cites: 54

Cited by: 1

Related to: 10