Comparative Analysis of the Effects of Age on Cognitive Performance in European and Asian Populations
摘要
We aimed to quantify the cognitive effects of aging in European and Asian populations. A first objective was to determine whether early signs of cognitive aging could be detected in a moderately aged population still within the working-age range. Another objective was to examine whether European and Asian participants exhibited different cognitive performances, potentially influenced by genetic, cultural, or lifestyle factors. We administered a comprehensive battery of cognitive tests to 30 participants, with a primary focus on executive functions. The participants were divided into four groups according to age and ethnic background: younger Europeans, younger Asians, older Europeans, and older Asians. We collected indirect measures of brain activity via heart rate all along the test performance to examine the compatibility of our results with the CRUNCH model. Body mass index (BMI) and several fitness measurements were also taken at rest to examine their correlation with cognitive performance. The results of this preliminary study show a decline in cognitive performance with age across multiple cognitive domains, including vigilance, mental flexibility, inhibition, short-term memory, working memory, attention, and reasoning. Additionally, European participants demonstrated higher performance in short-term and working memory, whereas Asian participants exhibited faster reaction times in the attention test. BMI was lower in Asians than Europeans but had no influence on cognitive performance. A better understanding of the specific cognitive functions that may be affected by aging will assist in decision-making regarding the retirement age and offer insights into aspects of the occupation that could be adjusted for senior individuals.