A factor analytic investigation of allostatic load and associations with cognitive performance

Project Summary

Allostatic load (AL) reflects wear-and-tear from long-term stress, impacting several physiological systems in the body. This study seeks to identify a robust method for modeling and measuring AL, and explore its associations with cognitive performance, in order to improve the detection of cognitively at-risk older adults. Baseline data from the CLSA Comprehensive Cohort will be analyzed in those aged 65 and older to explore the combined impact of several biological markers (e.g., blood pressure, body mass index, inflammation) on cognitive performance (memory, executive functioning, processing speed). This study aims to deepen our understanding of AL, how it is measured, and its impact on cognitive performance, in order to illuminate the long-term effects of chronic stress and detect those at risk of cognitive decline. This research may facilitate targeted interventions and stress prevention strategies to maintain and improve both physiological and cognitive function in older adults.