Intraindividual variability in reaction time predicts cognitive outcomes 5 years later.
OBJECTIVE
Building on results suggesting that intraindividual variability in reaction time (inconsistency) is highly sensitive to even subtle changes in cognitive ability, this study addressed the capacity of inconsistency to predict change in cognitive status (i.e., cognitive impairment, no dementia [CIND] classification) and attrition 5 years later.


METHODS
Two hundred twelve community-dwelling older adults, initially aged 64-92 years, remained in the study after 5 years. Inconsistency was calculated from baseline reaction time performance. Participants were assigned to groups on the basis of their fluctuations in CIND classification over time. Logistic and Cox regressions were used.


RESULTS
Baseline inconsistency significantly distinguished among those who remained or transitioned into CIND over the 5 years and those who were consistently intact (e.g., stable intact vs. stable CIND, Wald (1) = 7.91, p < .01, Exp(β) = 1.49). Average level of inconsistency over time was also predictive of study attrition, for example, Wald (1) = 11.31, p < .01, Exp(β) = 1.24.


CONCLUSIONS
For both outcomes, greater inconsistency was associated with a greater likelihood of being in a maladaptive group 5 years later. Variability based on moderately cognitively challenging tasks appeared to be particularly sensitive to longitudinal changes in cognitive ability. Mean rate of responding was a comparable predictor of change in most instances, but individuals were at greater relative risk of being in a maladaptive outcome group if they were more inconsistent rather than if they were slower in responding. Implications for the potential utility of intraindividual variability in reaction time as an early marker of cognitive decline are discussed.
Bielak
Allison A M
AA
Ageing Research Unit, Centre for Mental Health Research, Building 63, Eggleston Road, Australian National University, Canberra ACT 0200, Australia. allison.bielak@anu.edu.au
Hultsch
David F
DF
Strauss
Esther
E
Macdonald
Stuart W S
SW
Hunter
Michael A
MA
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001288:Attention / Q000502:physiology; D002755:Choice Behavior; D003071:Cognition / Q000502:physiology*; D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000503:physiopathology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007206:Individuality; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015233:Models, Statistical; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D011930:Reaction Time / Q000502:physiology*; D012044:Regression Analysis; D012111:Residence Characteristics; D016019:Survival Analysis