Rodrigues Emma A, Christie Gregory J, Cosco Theodore, Farzan Faranak, Sixsmith Andrew, Moreno Sylvain
School of Interactive Arts and Technology, Simon Fraser University, Surrey, BC V3T 0A3, Canada.
Circle Innovation, Simon Fraser University, Surrey, BC V3T 0A3, Canada.
Brain Sci. 2024 Apr 1;14(4):351. doi: 10.3390/brainsci14040351.
Cognitive aging is a complex and dynamic process characterized by changes due to genetics and environmental factors, including lifestyle choices and environmental exposure, which contribute to the heterogeneity observed in cognitive outcomes. This heterogeneity is particularly pronounced among older adults, with some individuals maintaining stable cognitive function while others experience complex, non-linear changes, making it difficult to identify meaningful decline accurately. Current research methods range from population-level modeling to individual-specific assessments. In this work, we review these methodologies and propose that population subtyping should be considered as a viable alternative. This approach relies on early individual-specific detection methods that can lead to an improved understanding of changes in individual cognitive trajectories. The improved understanding of cognitive trajectories through population subtyping can lead to the identification of meaningful changes and the determination of timely, effective interventions. This approach can aid in informing policy decisions and in developing targeted interventions that promote cognitive health, ultimately contributing to a more personalized understanding of the aging process within society and reducing the burden on healthcare systems.
认知衰老 是一个复杂且动态的过程，其特征是由遗传和环境因素导致的变化，包括生活方式选择和环境暴露，这些因素导致了认知结果中观察到的异质性。这种异质性在老年人中尤为明显，一些个体保持稳定的认知功能，而另一些个体则经历复杂的、非线性的变化，使得准确识别有意义的衰退变得困难。当前的研究方法从人群水平建模到个体特异性评估。在这项工作中，我们回顾了这些方法，并提出人群分型应被视为一种可行的替代方法。这种方法依赖于早期的个体特异性检测方法，这些方法可以增进对个体认知轨迹变化的理解。通过人群分型对认知轨迹的更好理解可以导致识别有意义的变化，并确定及时、有效的干预措施。这种方法有助于为政策决策提供信息，并制定促进认知健康的针对性干预措施，最终有助于在社会中对衰老过程有更个性化的理解，并减轻医疗保健系统的负担。
