Predicting impending death: Inconsistency in speed is a selective and early marker.

• DOI: 10.1037/0882-7974.23.3.595
• Publication Date: 2008-09-22T18:47:37Z
• Authors: Stuart W. S. MacD...; David F. Hultsch; Roger A. Dixon
• Keywords: Cognitive aging

Among older adults, deficits in both level and variability of speeded performance are linked to neurological impairment.This study examined whether when speed (rate), (inconsistency), traditional accuracy-based markers cognitive foreshadow terminal decline impending death.Victoria Longitudinal Study data spanning 12 years (5 waves) measurement were assembled for 707 adults aged 59 95 years.Whereas 442 survivors completed all waves relevant measures, 265 decedents participated on at least one occasion subsequently died.Four main results observed.First, Cox regressions evaluating the three predictors mortality replicated previous accuracy predictors.Second, (rate) predicted survival independent demographic indicators, cardiovascular health, level.Third, inconsistency influences combined.Fourth, follow-up random-effects models revealed increases per year closer death, with advancing age further moderating accelerated growth.Hierarchical prediction patterns support view that is an early behavioral marker dysfunction associated death.