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Troisi G, Marotta A, Lupiañez J, Casagrande M. Does personality affect the cognitive decline in aging? A systematic review. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 100:102455. [PMID: 39153600 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 08/03/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
Cognitive decline is a natural consequence of aging, but several genetic, environmental, and psychological factors can influence its trajectories. Among the most enduring factors, the Big Five personality traits - defined as relatively stable tendencies to think, behave, and react to the environment - can influence both directly (e.g., by physiological correlates) and indirectly (e.g., healthy or risky behaviors) the risk of developing dementia and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) - a preclinical form of cognitive decline. Despite the great amount of studies focusing on the relationship between personality and cognitive decline, an updated systematic synthesis of the results including a broader range of study designs is still lacking. This systematic review aims to summarize the findings of studies investigating: (i) differences in personality traits between groups of healthy individuals and those with MCI, (ii) the impact of personality traits on the risk for both MCI and dementia, and (iii) changes in personality traits among individuals progressing from normal cognition to MCI. Neuroticism emerged as a significant risk factor for MCI and dementia; Conscientiousness and Openness appear to offer protection against dementia and moderate cognitive decline. Overall, these findings suggest a pivotal role of personality structure in shaping cognitive outcomes on the long run.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Troisi
- Department of Psychology, University of Rome "Sapienza", Rome 00185, Italy; Department of Experimental Psychology, and Mind, Brain, and Behavior Research Center (CIMCYC), University of Granada, Granada, Spain.
| | - Andrea Marotta
- Department of Experimental Psychology, and Mind, Brain, and Behavior Research Center (CIMCYC), University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Juan Lupiañez
- Department of Experimental Psychology, and Mind, Brain, and Behavior Research Center (CIMCYC), University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Maria Casagrande
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology and Health, University of Rome "Sapienza", Rome 00185, Italy
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Armstrong M, Kaufman J, Maciarz J, Sullivan D, Kim J, Koppelmans V, Langenecker S, Weisenbach SL. The relationship between personality and cognition in older adults with and without early-onset depression. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1337320. [PMID: 39050920 PMCID: PMC11266124 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1337320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction It is well established that personality traits impact cognition, as certain personality factors are associated with performance in specific cognitive domains. However, the findings on the relationships between the Big Five traits and cognition are mixed. Additionally, few studies have explored these relationships in older adults with a history of depression. The present study aimed to (a) evaluate the impact of the Big Five personality traits in older adults with and without a lifetime history of depression; and (b) test the hypotheses that higher trait neuroticism would correlate negatively with cognitive performance, while openness to experience would correlate positively with cognition. Methods The sample consisted of 138 participants between the ages of 55 and 78 (M = 65.56, SD = 6.36). Sixty-two participants met criteria for current or remitted Major Depressive Disorder, while 76 had no history of depression or other mental health disorders. Participants underwent comprehensive neuropsychological testing. Personality was assessed using the NEO Personality Inventory-Revised (NEO-PI-R), while depression status was determined using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 (SCID-5). Following a series of Pearson correlations of cognitive variables and the five personality factors, linear regression models were estimated for each significant correlation. Demographic variables (i.e., age, education and sex) were entered in block 1, depression status (never vs. ever) was entered in block 2, and the personality factor score, or sub-facet was entered in block 3. Results Neuroticism was not associated with cognitive performance on any outcome measure. The facets Openness to Feelings and Openness to Values were positively related to phonemic fluency. Further Openness to Values was positively related to cognitive flexibility. Discussion Our results suggest that older people who are (a) more capable of identifying and understanding their feelings and the feelings of others, and (b) who are more willing to re-examine social, political, and religious values perform stronger on tasks measuring verbal fluency and cognitive flexibility, which are aspects of executive functioning. Interventions that aim to enhance open mindedness in older adults may have a parallel impact on improving executive functioning, though this would need to be examined prospectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Armstrong
- Stony Brook University, Stony Brook Medicine, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Jack Kaufman
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Jeremy Maciarz
- McLean Hospital, Mass General Brigham, Belmont, MA, United States
| | - Daniel Sullivan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Joseph Kim
- Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Mass General Brigham, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Vincent Koppelmans
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Scott Langenecker
- Department of Psychiatry, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Sara L. Weisenbach
- Stony Brook University, Stony Brook Medicine, Stony Brook, NY, United States
- McLean Hospital, Mass General Brigham, Belmont, MA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, United States
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Farias ST, De Leon FS, Gavett B, Fletcher E, Meyer OL, Whitmer RA, DeCarli C, Mungas D. Associations between personality and psychological characteristics and cognitive outcomes among older adults. Psychol Aging 2024; 39:188-198. [PMID: 38330372 PMCID: PMC10911449 DOI: 10.1037/pag0000792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Prior research has shown that some personality traits are associated with cognitive outcomes and may confirm risk or protection against cognitive decline. The present study expands on previous work to examine the association between a more comprehensive set of psychological characteristics and cognitive performance in a diverse cohort of older adults. We also examine whether controlling for brain atrophy influences the association between psychological characteristics and cognitive function. A total of 157 older adults completed a battery of psychological questionnaires (Openness to Experience, Conscientiousness, Agreeableness, Neuroticism, Extraversion, positive affect, negative affect-sadness, negative affect-anger, sense of purpose, loneliness, grit, and self-efficacy). Cognitive outcomes were measured across multiple domains: episodic memory, semantic memory, executive function, and spatial ability. Baseline brain (MRI) variables included gray matter, hippocampus, and total white matter hyperintensity volume. Parallel process, multilevel models yielded intercept (individual cognitive domain scores) and linear slope (global cognitive change) random effects for the cognitive outcomes. Positive affect (β = 0.013, SE = 0.005, p = .004) and Openness (β = 0.018, SE = 0.007, p = .009) were associated with less cognitive change, independent of baseline brain variables and covariates. Greater sadness predicted more cognitive decline when controlling for covariates, but not brain atrophy. A variety of psychological characteristics were associated with the cross-sectional measures of cognition. This study highlights the important impact of positive and negative affect on reducing or enhancing the risk of longitudinal cognitive decline. Such findings are especially important, given the available efficacious interventions that can improve affect. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Brandon Gavett
- Department of Neurology, University of California, Davis
| | - Evan Fletcher
- Department of Neurology, University of California, Davis
| | - Oanh L. Meyer
- Department of Neurology, University of California, Davis
| | | | | | - Dan Mungas
- Department of Neurology, University of California, Davis
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Beck ED, Yoneda T, James BD, Bennett DA, Hassenstab J, Katz MJ, Lipton RB, Morris J, Mroczek DK, Graham EK. Personality predictors of dementia diagnosis and neuropathological burden: An individual participant data meta-analysis. Alzheimers Dement 2024; 20:1497-1514. [PMID: 38018701 PMCID: PMC10947984 DOI: 10.1002/alz.13523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The extent to which the Big Five personality traits and subjective well-being (SWB) are discriminatory predictors of clinical manifestation of dementia versus dementia-related neuropathology is unclear. METHODS Using data from eight independent studies (Ntotal = 44,531; Ndementia = 1703; baseline Mage = 49 to 81 years, 26 to 61% female; Mfollow-up range = 3.53 to 21.00 years), Bayesian multilevel models tested whether personality traits and SWB differentially predicted neuropsychological and neuropathological characteristics of dementia. RESULTS Synthesized and individual study results indicate that high neuroticism and negative affect and low conscientiousness, extraversion, and positive affect were associated with increased risk of long-term dementia diagnosis. There were no consistent associations with neuropathology. DISCUSSION This multistudy project provides robust, conceptually replicated and extended evidence that psychosocial factors are strong predictors of dementia diagnosis but not consistently associated with neuropathology at autopsy. HIGHLIGHTS N(+), C(-), E(-), PA(-), and NA(+) were associated with incident diagnosis. Results were consistent despite self-report versus clinical diagnosis of dementia. Psychological factors were not associated with neuropathology at autopsy. Individuals with higher conscientiousness and no diagnosis had less neuropathology. High C individuals may withstand neuropathology for longer before death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emorie D. Beck
- Department of Medical Social SciencesNorthwestern UniversityFeinberg School of MedicineChicagoIllinoisUSA
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of CaliforniaDavisDavisCaliforniaUSA
| | - Tomiko Yoneda
- Department of Medical Social SciencesNorthwestern UniversityFeinberg School of MedicineChicagoIllinoisUSA
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of CaliforniaDavisDavisCaliforniaUSA
| | - Bryan D. James
- Rush Alzheimer's Disease CenterDepartment of Internal MedicineRush University Medical CenterChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - David A. Bennett
- Department of NeurologyRush Alzheimer's Disease CenterRush University Medical CenterChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Jason Hassenstab
- Department of NeurologyWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Mindy J. Katz
- Department of NeurologyAlbert Einstein College of MedicineBronxNew YorkUSA
| | - Richard B. Lipton
- Department of NeurologyAlbert Einstein College of MedicineBronxNew YorkUSA
| | - John Morris
- Department of NeurologyRush Alzheimer's Disease CenterRush University Medical CenterChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Daniel K. Mroczek
- Department of Medical Social SciencesNorthwestern UniversityFeinberg School of MedicineChicagoIllinoisUSA
- Department of PsychologyNorthwestern UniversityWeinberg College of Arts & SciencesEvanstonIllinoisUSA
| | - Eileen K. Graham
- Department of Medical Social SciencesNorthwestern UniversityFeinberg School of MedicineChicagoIllinoisUSA
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Stolz C, Bulla A, Soch J, Schott BH, Richter A. Openness to Experience is associated with neural and performance measures of memory in older adults. Soc Cogn Affect Neurosci 2023; 18:nsad041. [PMID: 37632761 PMCID: PMC10533339 DOI: 10.1093/scan/nsad041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related decline in episodic memory performance is a well-replicated finding across numerous studies. Recent studies focusing on aging and individual differences found that the Big Five personality trait Openness to Experience (hereafter: Openness) is associated with better episodic memory performance in older adults, but the associated neural mechanisms are largely unclear. Here, we investigated the relationship between Openness and memory network function in a sample of 352 participants (143 older adults, 50-80 years; 209 young adults, 18-35 years). Participants underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) during a visual memory encoding task. Functional memory brain-network integrity was assessed using the similarity of activations during memory encoding (SAME) scores, which reflect the similarity of a participant's memory network activity compared to prototypical fMRI activity patterns of young adults. Openness was assessed using the NEO Five-Factor Inventory. Older vs young adults showed lower memory performance and higher deviation of fMRI activity patterns (i.e. lower SAME scores). Specifically in older adults, high Openness was associated with better memory performance, and mediation analysis showed that this relationship was partially mediated by higher SAME scores. Our results suggest that trait Openness may constitute a protective factor in cognitive aging by better preservation of the brain's memory network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Stolz
- Department of Behavioral Neurology, Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology (LIN), Magdeburg 39118, Germany
- Department of Neuropsychology, Institute of Psychology, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg 39106, Germany
| | - Ariane Bulla
- Department of Behavioral Neurology, Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology (LIN), Magdeburg 39118, Germany
| | - Joram Soch
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Göttingen 37075, Germany
- Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience (BCCN), Berlin 10115, Germany
| | - Björn H Schott
- Department of Behavioral Neurology, Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology (LIN), Magdeburg 39118, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Göttingen 37075, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen 37075, Germany
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS), Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Anni Richter
- Department of Behavioral Neurology, Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology (LIN), Magdeburg 39118, Germany
- German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), Germany
- Center for Intervention and Research on adaptive and maladaptive brain Circuits underlying mental health (C-I-R-C), Jena-Magdeburg-Halle, Germany
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Soncu Buyukiscan E, Yildirim E, Demirtas-Tatlidede A, Bilgic B, Gurvit H. An Investigation of Affective Personality Traits in Alzheimer's Disease: SEEKING as a Possible Predictor for Early-Stage Alzheimer's Dementia. Exp Aging Res 2023:1-14. [PMID: 37695698 DOI: 10.1080/0361073x.2023.2256629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the current study was to investigate affective personality traits in Alzheimer's disease, a neurodegenerative condition mainly characterized by episodic memory impairment. METHOD The sample included 69 participants from 3 diagnostic categories. Twenty-five participants were diagnosed with subjective cognitive impairment (SCI), 26 participants were diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment of the amnestic type (aMCI), and the remaining 18 participants were diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer's dementia (ADD). Diagnostic labels were given as a result of detailed neurological, neuropsychological, and neuroradiological assessment. Affective personality traits were assessed via Affective Neuroscience Personality Scales (ANPS). RESULTS The only significant intergroup difference was obtained for the SEEKING subscale of ANPS. Here, ADD group scored significantly lower compared to the SCI group. The results of logistic regression analysis also indicated that SEEKING score successfully predicted early-stage ADD diagnosis. CONCLUSION The results suggest that a specific personality constellation characterized by reduced investment in the outside world might be associated with Alzheimer's disease, either as a risk factor or a byproduct of the neurodegenerative process initiated by AD pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elif Yildirim
- Department of Psychology, Isik University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Basar Bilgic
- Behavioral Neurology and Movement Disorders Unit, Department of Neurology, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Hakan Gurvit
- Behavioral Neurology and Movement Disorders Unit, Department of Neurology, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
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Terracciano A, Walker K, An Y, Luchetti M, Stephan Y, Moghekar AR, Sutin AR, Ferrucci L, Resnick SM. The association between personality and plasma biomarkers of astrogliosis and neuronal injury. Neurobiol Aging 2023; 128:65-73. [PMID: 37210782 PMCID: PMC10247521 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2023.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Personality traits have been associated with the risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease neuropathology, including amyloid and tau. This study examines whether personality traits are concurrently related to plasma glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), a marker of astrogliosis, and neurofilament light (NfL), a marker of neuronal injury. Cognitively unimpaired participants from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study on Aging (N = 786; age: 22-95) were assayed for plasma GFAP and NfL and completed the Revised NEO Personality Inventory, which measures 5 domains and 30 facets of personality. Neuroticism (particularly vulnerability to stress, anxiety, and depression) was associated with higher GFAP and NfL. Conscientiousness was associated with lower GFAP. Extraversion (particularly positive emotions, assertiveness, and activity) was related to lower GFAP and NfL. These associations were independent of demographic, behavioral, and health covariates and not moderated by age, sex, or apolipoprotein E genotype. The personality correlates of astrogliosis and neuronal injury tend to be similar, are found in individuals without cognitive impairment, and point to potential neurobiological underpinnings of the association between personality traits and neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Terracciano
- Department of Geriatrics, Florida State University College of Medicine, Tallahassee, FL, USA; Laboratory of Behavioral Neuroscience, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Keenan Walker
- Laboratory of Behavioral Neuroscience, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Yang An
- Laboratory of Behavioral Neuroscience, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Martina Luchetti
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Social Medicine, Florida State University College of Medicine, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | | | - Abhay R Moghekar
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Angelina R Sutin
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Social Medicine, Florida State University College of Medicine, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Luigi Ferrucci
- Laboratory of Behavioral Neuroscience, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Susan M Resnick
- Laboratory of Behavioral Neuroscience, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Henriques-Calado J. Personality traits and disorders in Alzheimer's disease. Brain Behav 2023; 13:e2938. [PMID: 36919197 PMCID: PMC10097140 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.2938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The relationships between axis II personality disorders and the normative personality traits were explored in the context of current and pre-morbid personality assessment in Alzheimer's disease (AD). METHODS The study was conducted with four groups who were administered the NEO-FFI and the PDQ-4+, in the form of individual interview sessions. Current personality measure: consisting of 44 female participants (AD group) and, the control group, consisting of 80 female participants from the population at large. Pre-morbid personality measure: AD group informants (n = 40); control group informants (n = 42). RESULTS The results are in line with the literature review and provide new research data. By factorial discriminant analysis, the current and pre-morbid personality variables that differentiate AD from control groups are identified. The personality traits variables are the best discriminators such as low agreeableness, low openness to experience, and high neuroticism, suggesting that the maladaptive personality functioning can be described extending the range of psychopathology to a dimensional approach. CONCLUSIONS The study of personality variables seems to suggest, in their inclusion, the possibility to increase sensitivity toward an assessment in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Henriques-Calado
- Faculdade de Psicologia, Universidade de Lisboa, Alameda da Universidade, Lisboa, Portugal.,CICPSI, Faculdade de Psicologia, Universidade de Lisboa, Alameda da Universidade, Lisboa, Portugal
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Duberstein PR, Kozlov E. Reimagining Research on Personality, Stress and Cognition in Depressed Older Adults: Reflections on Steffens et al. Am J Geriatr Psychiatry 2023; 31:180-182. [PMID: 36496333 DOI: 10.1016/j.jagp.2022.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Paul R Duberstein
- Department of Health Behavior (PRD, EK), Society, and Policy, Rutgers School of Public Health, West Piscataway, NJ.
| | - Elissa Kozlov
- Department of Health Behavior (PRD, EK), Society, and Policy, Rutgers School of Public Health, West Piscataway, NJ
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Kang W. Associations between Big Five personality traits and episodic memory performance in young, middle-aged, and older people: Evidence from the immediate and delayed word recall tasks. PERSONALITY AND INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.paid.2022.111967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Beaudreau SA, Gould CE, Hantke NC, Kramer AO, Suresh M, Jo B, Fairchild JK. Insights about personality traits and cognitive performance and decline in adults 51-59 Years old from the Wisconsin longitudinal study. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2023; 38:e5852. [PMID: 36495530 DOI: 10.1002/gps.5852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To delineate midlife personality dimensions of early cognitive change in an age-homogenous sample of U.S. older adults. DESIGN Longitudinal study of 6133 adults from the Wisconsin Longitudinal Study (WLS). MEASURES Middle-aged participants (mean age = 53.2; SD = 0.6) from the WLS completed the 'Big-5' personality assessment in 1992. Mixed effects models examined whether midlife personality traits were associated with change in cognitive performance from participant's mid-60s (2004-2005) to early 70s (2011). The cognitive battery assessed abstract reasoning (AR), category fluency (CF), working memory (WM), and delayed verbal memory (DVM). Models adjusted for sex, education, and subjective health. RESULTS High Openness was a significant predictor of change in AR, CF, and DVM. These cognitive outcomes declined less among those with high Openness, but the effect sizes for Openness by time were small (R2 s < 0.01). AR and CF were characterized by higher overall performance with high Openness, but with relatively parallel change for the highest and lowest Openness quartiles. There was no advantage of Openness to DVM by the second assessment. High Conscientiousness was a predictor of more change for DVM, though the effect size was small (R 2 < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS None of the midlife personality traits were uniformly associated with change in cognitive performance in early older adulthood. High midlife Openness had the most noteworthy impact on cognition. Interventions designed to target Openness have potential to elevate and maintain a higher threshold of performance in some cognitive domains, but may only have a small impact on cognitive change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherry A Beaudreau
- Sierra Pacific Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, California, Palo Alto, USA
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
- School of Psychology, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Christine E Gould
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
- Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center (GRECC), Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Nathan C Hantke
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
- Mental Health and Clinical Neuroscience Division, VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Abigail O Kramer
- Sierra Pacific Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, California, Palo Alto, USA
- Psychology Department, Palo Alto University, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Madhuvanthi Suresh
- Sierra Pacific Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, California, Palo Alto, USA
- Division of Movement Disorders, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Booil Jo
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Jennifer K Fairchild
- Sierra Pacific Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, California, Palo Alto, USA
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
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Terracciano A, Piras MR, Sutin AR, Delitala A, Curreli NC, Balaci L, Marongiu M, Zhu X, Aschwanden D, Luchetti M, Oppong R, Schlessinger D, Cucca F, Launer LJ, Fiorillo E. Facets of Personality and Risk of Cognitive Impairment: Longitudinal Findings in a Rural Community from Sardinia. J Alzheimers Dis 2022; 88:1651-1661. [DOI: 10.3233/jad-220400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Background: Few studies have examined the associations between personality facets and dementia risk and rarely included individuals from rural settings or with low education. Objective: To examine the association between personality and the risk of cognitive impairment. Methods: Participants (N = 1,668; age 50 to 94 at baseline; 56.4% women; 86.5% less than high school diploma) were from a rural region of Sardinia (Italy) who completed the Revised NEO Personality Inventory (NEO-PI-R) during the first wave (2001–2004) and the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) at waves two to five (2005–2021). Cox regression was used to test personality and covariates as predictors of cognitive impairment based on MMSE education-adjusted cutoffs. Results: During the up to 18-year follow-up (M = 10.38; SD = 4.76), 187 individuals (11.2%) scored as cognitively impaired. Participants with higher neuroticism (particularly the depression facet [HR = 1.22, 95% CI = 1.06–1.40]), and lower agreeableness (particularly the modesty facet [HR = 0.83, 95% CI = 0.71–0.97]) and lower conscientiousness (particularly the dutifulness facet [HR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.67–0.92]) were at higher risk of cognitive impairment. Lower warmth ([HR = 0.75, 95% CI = 0.65–0.87], facet of extraversion) and ideas ([HR = 0.76, 95% CI = 0.65–0.89], facet of openness) were also associated with increased risk of impairment. These associations were virtually unchanged in models that accounted for other risk factors, including smoking, depression, obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and apolipoprotein E (APOE) ɛ4 carrier status. Across the five domains, sex and the APOE variant did not moderate the associations. Conclusion: In a sample with demographic characteristics underrepresented in dementia research, this study identifies personality domains and facets most relevant to the risk of cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria Rita Piras
- Istituto di Ricerca Genetica e Biomedica, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, c/o Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Alessandro Delitala
- Istituto di Ricerca Genetica e Biomedica, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, c/o Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Nicolò Camillo Curreli
- Istituto di Ricerca Genetica e Biomedica, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, c/o Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Lenuta Balaci
- Istituto di Ricerca Genetica e Biomedica, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, c/o Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Michele Marongiu
- Istituto di Ricerca Genetica e Biomedica, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, c/o Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Xianghe Zhu
- Florida State University College of Medicine, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | | | - Martina Luchetti
- Florida State University College of Medicine, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Richard Oppong
- National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - David Schlessinger
- National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Francesco Cucca
- Istituto di Ricerca Genetica e Biomedica, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, c/o Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Lenore J. Launer
- National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Edoardo Fiorillo
- Istituto di Ricerca Genetica e Biomedica, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, c/o Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
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13
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Gouveia C, Gibbons E, Dehghani N, Eapen J, Guerreiro R, Bras J. Genome-wide association of polygenic risk extremes for Alzheimer's disease in the UK Biobank. Sci Rep 2022; 12:8404. [PMID: 35589863 PMCID: PMC9120074 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-12391-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
In just over a decade, advances in genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have offered an approach to stratify individuals based on genetic risk for disease. Using recent Alzheimer's disease (AD) GWAS results as the base data, we determined each individual's polygenic risk score (PRS) in the UK Biobank dataset. Using individuals within the extreme risk distribution, we performed a GWAS that is agnostic of AD phenotype and is instead based on known genetic risk for disease. To interpret the functions of the new risk factors, we conducted phenotype analyses, including a phenome-wide association study. We identified 246 loci surpassing the significance threshold of which 229 were not reported in the base AD GWAS. These include loci that showed suggestive levels of association in the base GWAS and loci not previously suspected to be associated with AD. Among these, there are loci, such as IL34 and KANSL1, that have since been shown to be associated with AD in recent studies. We also show highly significant genetic correlations with multiple health-related outcomes that provide insights into prodromal symptoms and comorbidities. This is the first study to utilize PRS as a phenotype-agnostic group classification in AD genetic studies. We identify potential new loci for AD and detail phenotypic analysis of these PRS extremes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina Gouveia
- Department of Neurodegenerative Science, Van Andel Research Institute, 333 Bostwick Ave. N.E., Grand Rapids, MI, 49503-2518, USA
| | - Elizabeth Gibbons
- Department of Neurodegenerative Science, Van Andel Research Institute, 333 Bostwick Ave. N.E., Grand Rapids, MI, 49503-2518, USA
| | - Nadia Dehghani
- Department of Neurodegenerative Science, Van Andel Research Institute, 333 Bostwick Ave. N.E., Grand Rapids, MI, 49503-2518, USA
| | - James Eapen
- Department of Neurodegenerative Science, Van Andel Research Institute, 333 Bostwick Ave. N.E., Grand Rapids, MI, 49503-2518, USA
| | - Rita Guerreiro
- Department of Neurodegenerative Science, Van Andel Research Institute, 333 Bostwick Ave. N.E., Grand Rapids, MI, 49503-2518, USA.,Division of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Jose Bras
- Department of Neurodegenerative Science, Van Andel Research Institute, 333 Bostwick Ave. N.E., Grand Rapids, MI, 49503-2518, USA. .,Division of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, Grand Rapids, MI, USA.
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14
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Li Q, Lv X, Jin F, Liao K, Gao L, Xu J. Associations of Polygenic Risk Score for Late-Onset Alzheimer's Disease With Biomarkers. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:849443. [PMID: 35493930 PMCID: PMC9047857 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.849443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Late-onset Alzheimer's disease (LOAD) is a common irreversible neurodegenerative disease with heterogeneous genetic characteristics. Identifying the biological biomarkers with the potential to predict the conversion from normal controls to LOAD is clinically important for early interventions of LOAD and clinical treatment. The polygenic risk score for LOAD (AD-PRS) has been reported the potential possibility for reliably identifying individuals with risk of developing LOAD recently. To investigate the external phenotype changes resulting from LOAD and the underlying etiology, we summarize the comprehensive associations of AD-PRS with multiple biomarkers, including neuroimaging, cerebrospinal fluid and plasma biomarkers, cardiovascular risk factors, cognitive behavior, and mental health. This systematic review helps improve the understanding of the biomarkers with potential predictive value for LOAD and further optimizing the prediction and accurate treatment of LOAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiaojun Li
- School of Information Engineering, Tianjin University of Commerce, Tianjin, China
| | - Xingping Lv
- School of Sciences, Tianjin University of Commerce, Tianjin, China
| | - Fei Jin
- Department of Molecular Imaging, Qingdao Central Hospital, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Kun Liao
- School of Sciences, Tianjin University of Commerce, Tianjin, China
| | - Liyuan Gao
- School of Sciences, Tianjin University of Commerce, Tianjin, China
| | - Jiayuan Xu
- Department of Radiology and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Functional Imaging, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
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15
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Moschini V, Mazzeo S, Bagnoli S, Padiglioni S, Emiliani F, Giacomucci G, Morinelli C, Ingannato A, Freni T, Belloni L, Ferrari C, Sorbi S, Nacmias B, Bessi V. CAG Repeats Within the Non-pathological Range in the HTT Gene Influence Personality Traits in Patients With Subjective Cognitive Decline: A 13-Year Follow-Up Study. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:826135. [PMID: 35370826 PMCID: PMC8965717 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.826135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE HTT is a gene containing a key region of CAG repeats. When expanded beyond 39 repeats, Huntington disease (HD) develops. HTT genes with <35 repeats are not associated with HD. The biological function of CAG repeat expansion below the non-pathological threshold is not well understood. In fact higher number of repeats in HTT confer advantageous changes in brain structure and general intelligence, but several studies focused on establishing the association between CAG expansions and susceptibility to psychiatric disturbances and to other neurodegenerative disease than HD. We hypothesized that HTT CAG repeat length below the pathological threshold might influence mood and personality traits in a longitudinal sample of individuals with Subjective Cognitive Decline. METHODS We included 54 patients with SCD. All patients underwent an extensive neuropsychological battery at baseline, APOE genotyping and analysis of HTT alleles. We used the Big Five Factors Questionnaire (BFFQ) and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS), respectively, to assess personality traits of patients and depression at baseline. Patients who did not progress to Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) had at least 5-year follow-up time. RESULTS In the whole sample, CAG repeat number in the shorter HTT allele was inversely correlated with conscientiousness (Pearson = -0.364, p = 0.007). There was no correlation between HDRS and CAG repeats. During the follow-up, 14 patients [25.93% (95% C.I. = 14.24-37.61)] progressed to MCI (MCI+) and 40 [74.07% (95% C.I. = 62.39-85.76)] did not (MCI-). When we performed the same analysis in the MCI+ group we found that: CAG repeat length on the shorter allele was inversely correlated with energy (Pearson = 0.639, p = 0.014) and conscientiousness (Pearson = -0.695, p = 0.006). CAG repeat length on the longer allele was inversely correlated with conscientiousness (Pearson = -0.901, p < 0.001) and directly correlated with emotional stability (Pearson = 0.639, p = 0.014). These associations were confirmed also by multivariate analysis. We found no correlations between BFFQ parameters and CAG repeats in the MCI- group. DISCUSSION Personality traits and CAG repeat length in the intermediate range have been associated with progression of cognitive decline and neuropathological findings consistent with AD. We showed that CAG repeat lengths in the HTT gene within the non-pathological range influence personality traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Moschini
- Strutture Organizzative Dipartimentali Neurologia 1, Dipartimento Neuromuscolo-Scheletrico e Degli Organi di Senso, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - Salvatore Mazzeo
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Florence, Italy.,Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, Florence, Italy
| | - Silvia Bagnoli
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Sonia Padiglioni
- Regional Referral Centre for Relational Criticalities, Florence, Italy.,Unit Clinic of Organizations Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Filippo Emiliani
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Giulia Giacomucci
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Carmen Morinelli
- Strutture Organizzative Dipartimentali Neurologia 1, Dipartimento Neuromuscolo-Scheletrico e Degli Organi di Senso, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - Assunta Ingannato
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Tommaso Freni
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Laura Belloni
- Regional Referral Centre for Relational Criticalities, Florence, Italy.,Unit Clinic of Organizations Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Camilla Ferrari
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Sandro Sorbi
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Florence, Italy.,Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, Florence, Italy
| | - Benedetta Nacmias
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Florence, Italy.,Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, Florence, Italy
| | - Valentina Bessi
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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16
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Kim BR, Lee R, Kim N, Jeong JH, Kim GH. The Moderating Role of Sleep Quality on the Association between Neuroticism and Frontal Executive Function in Older Adults. Behav Sleep Med 2022; 20:50-62. [PMID: 33522299 DOI: 10.1080/15402002.2021.1879809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE/BACKGROUND Personality traits are regarded as risk factors for cognitive impairment in older adults, while sleep disturbance and physical inactivity are also considered as modifiable risk factors. Therefore, it could be beneficial to investigate the effects of those modifiable risk factors on the relationship between personality traits and cognitive functions, to prepare appropriate strategies for mitigating cognitive impairment. PARTICIPANTS A total of 155 cognitively unimpaired older adults were included. METHODS All participants underwent cognitive function tests using the Seoul Neuropsychological Screening Battery and examinations for personality traits using the Big Five Inventory. Individual physical activity and sleep quality were assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, respectively. A hierarchical linear multiple regression analysis was performed to demonstrate the direct association between personality traits and cognitive functions, and the multiple moderator analysis was used to analyze the moderating effects of lifestyle factors on this association. RESULTS Among the five personality traits, only neuroticism was negatively associated with the frontal executive and visuospatial functions after controlling age, sex, and years of education. Interestingly, the negative relationship between neuroticism and frontal executive function was alleviated in older adults with higher sleep quality. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrated that higher sleep quality has significant moderating effects on the negative association between neuroticism and frontal executive functions in older adults, which suggests intervention for improving sleep quality such as cognitive behavioral therapy can be considered in older adults who have personality traits associated with a high risk of cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bori R Kim
- Department of Neurology, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital, Ewha Womans University, College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Ewha Medical Research Institute, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ruda Lee
- Department of Neurology, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital, Ewha Womans University, College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Psychiatry, Kyung Hee University Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Nayeon Kim
- Department of Neurology, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital, Ewha Womans University, College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jee Hyang Jeong
- Department of Neurology, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital, Ewha Womans University, College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Neurology, Ewha Womans University Seoul Hospital, Ewha Womans University, College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Geon Ha Kim
- Department of Neurology, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital, Ewha Womans University, College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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17
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Aschwanden D, Sutin AR, Ledermann T, Luchetti M, Stephan Y, Sesker AA, Zhu X, Terracciano A. Subjective Cognitive Decline: Is a Resilient Personality Protective Against Progression to Objective Cognitive Impairment? Findings from Two Community-Based Cohort Studies. J Alzheimers Dis 2022; 89:87-105. [PMID: 35848026 PMCID: PMC9843496 DOI: 10.3233/jad-220319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Subjective cognitive decline (SCD) is related to personality functioning and risk of subsequent objective cognitive impairment. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to examine whether lower neuroticism and higher conscientiousness-resilient personality traits-protect against conversion from SCD to objective cognitive impairment in two longitudinal community-based cohorts. METHODS Data from the Health and Retirement Study (N = 1,741, Mean age = 68.64 years, Follow-up mean = 7.34 years) and the National Health and Aging Trends Survey (N = 258, Mean age = 79.34 years, Follow-up mean = 4.31 years) were analyzed using Cox regression analysis, controlling for sociodemographic covariates, symptoms of anxiety and depression, and apolipoprotein ɛ4. RESULTS The pooled results showed that lower neuroticism and higher conscientiousness were associated with decreased risk of conversion from SCD to objective cognitive impairment. CONCLUSION Among individuals with SCD, those with a resilient personality may have more cognitive and psychological reserve to maintain cognitive functioning and delay conversion to objective cognitive impairment. The findings further contribute to a better understanding of personality along the cognitive continuum: The observed effect sizes were smaller than those reported in cognitively normal individuals but larger than in individuals with mild cognitive impairment. Personality could provide useful information to identify individuals with SCD who may develop objective cognitive impairment-namely those who hold a vulnerable personality (higher neuroticism, lower conscientiousness).
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Affiliation(s)
- Damaris Aschwanden
- Department of Geriatrics, Florida State University College of Medicine, Florida, USA
| | - Angelina R. Sutin
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Social Medicine, Florida State University College of Medicine, Florida, USA
| | - Thomas Ledermann
- Department of Human Development and Family Science, Florida State University College of Health and Human Sciences, Florida, USA
| | - Martina Luchetti
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Social Medicine, Florida State University College of Medicine, Florida, USA
| | | | - Amanda A. Sesker
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Social Medicine, Florida State University College of Medicine, Florida, USA
| | - Xianghe Zhu
- Department of Geriatrics, Florida State University College of Medicine, Florida, USA
| | - Antonio Terracciano
- Department of Geriatrics, Florida State University College of Medicine, Florida, USA
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18
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Baena A, Bocanegra Y, Torres V, Vila-Castelar C, Guzmán-Vélez E, Fox-Fuller JT, Gatchel JR, Sánchez J, Pluim CF, Ramirez-Gómez L, Martínez J, Pineda D, Lopera F, Quiroz YT. Neuroticism Is Associated with Tau Pathology in Cognitively Unimpaired Individuals with Autosomal Dominant Alzheimer's Disease. J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 82:1809-1822. [PMID: 34219716 DOI: 10.3233/jad-210185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Greater neuroticism has been associated with higher risk for Alzheimer's disease (AD) dementia. However, the directionality of this association is unclear. We examined whether personality traits differ between cognitively-unimpaired carriers of autosomal-dominant AD (ADAD) and non-carriers, and are associated with in vivo AD pathology. OBJECTIVE To determine whether personality traits differ between cognitively unimpaired ADAD mutation carriers and non-carriers, and whether the traits are related to age and AD biomarkers. METHODS A total of 33 cognitively-unimpaired Presenilin-1 E280A mutation carriers and 41 non-carriers (ages 27-46) completed neuropsychological testing and the NEO Five-Factor Personality Inventory. A subsample (n = 46; 20 carriers) also underwent tau and amyloid PET imaging. RESULTS Carriers reported higher neuroticism relative to non-carriers, although this difference was not significant after controlling for sex. Neuroticism was positively correlated with entorhinal tau levels only in carriers, but not with amyloid levels. CONCLUSION The finding of higher neuroticism in carriers and the association of this trait with tau pathology in preclinical stages of AD highlights the importance of including personality measures in the evaluation of individuals at increased risk for cognitive impairment and dementia. Further research is needed to characterize the mechanisms of these relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Baena
- Grupo de Neurociencias de Antioquia, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Yamile Bocanegra
- Grupo de Neurociencias de Antioquia, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Valeria Torres
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Clara Vila-Castelar
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Edmarie Guzmán-Vélez
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA.,Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Joshua T Fox-Fuller
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA.,Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jennifer R Gatchel
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Justin Sánchez
- Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Celina F Pluim
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Liliana Ramirez-Gómez
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jairo Martínez
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - David Pineda
- Grupo de Neurociencias de Antioquia, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Francisco Lopera
- Grupo de Neurociencias de Antioquia, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Yakeel T Quiroz
- Grupo de Neurociencias de Antioquia, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia.,Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA.,Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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19
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Franks KH, Bransby L, Saling MM, Pase MP. Association of Stress with Risk of Dementia and Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 82:1573-1590. [PMID: 34366334 DOI: 10.3233/jad-210094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although many studies have investigated the association between stress and risk of dementia, findings are inconsistent due to the variation in the measures used to assess stress. OBJECTIVE We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the association between psychological stress (including neuroticism, stressful life events, and perceived stress) and the risk of incident dementia and mild cognitive impairment in adults. METHODS PsycINFO, Embase, and MEDLINE were searched to October 2020 for eligible observational, prospective studies. Of the 1,607 studies screened, 26 (24 unique cohorts) were included in the qualitative analysis and 16 (15 unique cohorts) were included in the quantitative analysis. RESULTS Across studies, higher perceived stress was significantly associated with an increased risk of mild cognitive impairment (Cases/Total N = 207/860: hazard ratio [HR] = 1.19, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.03-1.38) and all-cause dementia (Cases/Total N = 203/1,882: HR = 1.44, 95% CI = 1.07-1.95). Exposure to two or more stressful life events (versus none) was significantly associated with an increased risk of all-cause dementia (Cases/Total N = 3,354/11,597: HR = 1.72, 95% CI = 1.14-2.60), while one or more stressful life events was not. Higher neuroticism was significantly associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease dementia (Cases/Total N = 497/4,771: HR = 1.07, 95% CI = 1.01-1.12), but not all-cause dementia. CONCLUSION This review suggests that psychological stress in adulthood is associated with an increased risk of dementia. Further research is needed to clarify the mechanisms underlying these associations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine H Franks
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lisa Bransby
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael M Saling
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Matthew P Pase
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
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20
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Terracciano A, Aschwanden D, Stephan Y, Cerasa A, Passamonti L, Toschi N, Sutin AR. Neuroticism and Risk of Parkinson's Disease: A Meta-Analysis. Mov Disord 2021; 36:1863-1870. [PMID: 33817817 PMCID: PMC8376751 DOI: 10.1002/mds.28575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuroticism is linked to mood disorders and Alzheimer's disease, but fewer studies have tested the prospective association with Parkinson's disease (PD). OBJECTIVES To examine the association between neuroticism and risk of PD in a large cohort and a meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies. METHODS Participants from the UK Biobank (N = 490,755) completed a neuroticism scale in 2006-2010. Incident PD was ascertained using electronic health records or death records up to 2018. The systematic search and meta-analysis followed the MOOSE guidelines. RESULTS During 11.91 years of follow-up (mean = 8.88 years; 4,360,105 person-years) 1142 incident PD cases were identified. Neuroticism was associated with higher risk of incident PD, both as continuous (HR = 1.28; 95% CI: 1.21-1.36) and categorical variable (top vs. bottom quartiles: HR = 1.88; 95% CI: 1.60-2.22). The association remained significant after accounting for age, sex, smoking, physical activity, anxiety, and depressed mood, and after excluding cases that occurred within the first 5 years of follow-up. The associations were similar for women and men and across levels of socioeconomic status. Random-effect meta-analysis of four prospective studies (N = 548,284) found neuroticism associated with increased risk of incident PD (HR = 1.82; 95% CI: 1.59-2.08; P = 7.31-19 ). There was no evidence of heterogeneity across studies with follow-ups ranging from one to four decades. CONCLUSION The results from the large UK Biobank and meta-analysis of prospective studies indicate that neuroticism is consistently associated with a higher risk of incident PD. © 2021 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Terracciano
- Department of Geriatrics, Florida State University College of Medicine, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Damaris Aschwanden
- Department of Geriatrics, Florida State University College of Medicine, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | | | - Antonio Cerasa
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (IRIB-CNR), 87050 Mangone (CS), Italy
- S. Anna Institute, 88900 Crotone, Italy
| | - Luca Passamonti
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Istituto di Bioimmagini e Fisiologia Molecolare (IBFM), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Milano, Italy
| | - Nicola Toschi
- Department of Biomedicine & Prevention, University "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
- A.A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging - Harvard Medical School/MGH
| | - Angelina R. Sutin
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Social Medicine, Florida State University College of Medicine, Tallahassee, FL, USA
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21
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Graham EK, James BD, Jackson KL, Willroth EC, Luo J, Beam CR, Pedersen NL, Reynolds CA, Katz M, Lipton RB, Boyle P, Wilson R, Bennett DA, Mroczek DK. A coordinated analysis of the associations among personality traits, cognitive decline, and dementia in older adulthood. JOURNAL OF RESEARCH IN PERSONALITY 2021; 92:104100. [PMID: 34083845 PMCID: PMC8168939 DOI: 10.1016/j.jrp.2021.104100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
There are individual differences in the rates of cognitive decline across later adulthood. Personality traits are among the factors that may account for these differences. The current project investigated whether personality traits were associated with trajectories of cognitive decline, and whether the associations were different before and after dementia diagnosis. The data was analyzed using linear mixed effects regression. Across study aims is a focus on replicability and generalizability. Each question was addressed in four independent longitudinal studies (EAS, MAP, ROS, SATSA), then meta-analyzed, providing estimates of replicability. Results indicated that low neuroticism and high openness were associated with total cognitive function. We detected evidence for cognitive decline in all four samples, and openness was associated with decline post dementia diagnosis.
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22
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Ma YH, Yang YX, Shen XN, Chen SD, Tan L, Dong Q, Yu JT. Evaluation relationships between subjective wellbeing, personality traits, and Alzheimer's disease: A two-sample Mendelian randomization study. J Psychiatr Res 2021; 137:498-505. [PMID: 33798978 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2021.03.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Observational studies have suggested that subjective wellbeing and personality traits link to risk of Alzheimer's disease (AD), but it is unclear if these associations are causal. METHODS We performed two-sample Mendelian randomization to assess potential causality. Genetic associations were obtained from the largest genome-wide association studies in Social Science Genetic Association Consortium (N = 298,420), Genetics of Personality Consortium (N = 81,036), and four independent consortia of AD (N = 455,258). We run the inverse variance weighted (IVW) approach as one primary analysis. A Bonferroni-corrected threshold of p < 8.33 × 10-3 was considered significant, and p values between 8.33 × 10-3 and 0.05 were considered to be suggestive of an association. RESULTS The suggestive association with decreased risk of AD was noted for a genetically predicted 1-SD increase in subjective wellbeing (odds ratio = 0.963, 95% confidence interval = 0.930-0.997; p = 0.032). Genetically predicted greater neuroticism was significantly associated with lower subjective wellbeing (β = -0.077; p = 0.004). No putative personality traits were significantly associated with AD risk after correction for multiple tests, including agreeableness (β = -0.0010; p = 0.477), conscientiousness (β = 0.0018; p = 0.270), openness (β = 0.0004; p = 0.738), neuroticism (β = -0.0098; p = 0.262), or extraversion (β = 0.0120; p = 0.262). CONCLUSIONS Subjective wellbeing may independently reduce the risk of AD. Residual confounding is likely to be responsible for the previous observational relationships between personality traits and AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Hui Ma
- Department of Neurology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao University, China
| | - Yu-Xiang Yang
- Department of Neurology and Institute of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xue-Ning Shen
- Department of Neurology and Institute of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shi-Dong Chen
- Department of Neurology and Institute of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lan Tan
- Department of Neurology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao University, China.
| | - Qiang Dong
- Department of Neurology and Institute of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jin-Tai Yu
- Department of Neurology and Institute of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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McCann SJH. Relation of state Alzheimer’s prevalence to state resident Big Five personality in the USA. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s12144-019-00181-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Aschwanden D, Strickhouser JE, Luchetti M, Stephan Y, Sutin AR, Terracciano A. Is personality associated with dementia risk? A meta-analytic investigation. Ageing Res Rev 2021; 67:101269. [PMID: 33561581 PMCID: PMC8005464 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2021.101269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
This study provides a quantitative synthesis of the prospective associations between personality traits (neuroticism, extraversion, openness, agreeableness, conscientiousness) and the risk of incident Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. We conducted five separate meta-analyses with 8-12 samples (N = 30,036 to 33,054) that were identified through a systematic literature search following the MOOSE guidelines. Higher neuroticism (HR = 1.24, 95% CI [1.17, 1.31]) and lower conscientiousness (HR = 0.77, 95% CI [0.73, 0.81]) were associated with increased dementia risk, even after accounting for covariates such as depressive symptoms. Lower extraversion (HR = 0.92, 95% CI [0.86, 0.97]), openness (HR = 0.91, 95% CI [0.86, 0.96]), and agreeableness (HR = 0.90, 95% CI [0.83, 0.98]) were also associated with increased risk, but these associations were less robust and not significant in fully adjusted models. No evidence of publication bias was found. The strength of associations was unrelated to publication year (i.e., no evidence of winner's curse). Meta-regressions indicated consistent effects for neuroticism, openness, and conscientiousness across methods to assess dementia, dementia type, follow-up length, sample age, minority, country, and personality measures. The association of extraversion and agreeableness varied by country. Our findings indicate robust associations of neuroticism and conscientiousness with dementia risk.
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Aschwanden D, Sutin AR, Luchetti M, Stephan Y, Terracciano A. Personality and Dementia Risk in England and Australia. GEROPSYCH 2020; 33:197-208. [PMID: 34326756 PMCID: PMC8318004 DOI: 10.1024/1662-9647/a000241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Evidence for the relation between personality and dementia risk comes mainly from American samples. We tested whether personality-dementia links extend to populations from England and Australia. Data from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA; N = 6,887; Follow-up mean: 5.64 years) and the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA; N = 2,778; Follow-up mean: 10.96 years) were analyzed using Cox PH models. In both samples, higher neuroticism was associated with increased dementia risk. In ELSA, lower conscientiousness was related to increased risk. In HILDA, conscientiousness had a similar effect but did not reach statistical significance. The present work found a consistent association for neuroticism and suggests similar personality-dementia links across demographic groups and high-income countries.
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Cerino ES, Hooker K, Goodrich E, Dodge HH. Personality Moderates Intervention Effects on Cognitive Function: A 6-Week Conversation-Based Intervention. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2020; 60:958-967. [PMID: 31112605 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnz063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Social isolation is associated with a higher risk of dementia. We previously conducted and showed the efficacy of an intervention which uses conversation (the core component of social interactions) as a tool to enhance cognitive function. We now explore whether cognitive improvements through conversation-based intervention depend on an individual's personality. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS We reexamined data from a 6-week randomized controlled trial (ClinicalTrials.gov Number: NCT01571427) to determine whether conversation-based intervention effects were moderated by personality traits in 83 older adults (mean age = 80.51 years, 49 cognitively intact, 34 individuals with mild cognitive impairment). The intervention group participated in daily 30-min face-to-face semi-structured conversations with trained interviewers through a web-enabled system for 6 weeks. At baseline, psychosocial questionnaires and a neuropsychological battery were completed. RESULTS Intervention group participants with high agreeableness, conscientiousness, and extraversion exhibited significant improvements in language-based executive function tasks beyond changes in the control group (ps < .05). An opposite pattern for delayed recall memory and working memory tasks emerged among highly extraverted participants (ps < .05). DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS Our exploratory findings suggest the adaptive role of personality traits in conversation-based cognitive interventions may be limited to tasks incorporating a language component, and offer initial evidence for personalized approaches to cognitive health in late life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric S Cerino
- School of Social and Behavioral Health Sciences, College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis
| | - Karen Hooker
- School of Social and Behavioral Health Sciences, College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis
| | - Elena Goodrich
- Department of Neurology, Layton Aging and Alzheimer's Disease Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland
| | - Hiroko H Dodge
- Department of Neurology, Layton Aging and Alzheimer's Disease Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland.,Department of Neurology, Michigan Alzheimer's Disease Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
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Yoon B, Baker SL, Korman D, Tennant VR, Harrison TM, Landau S, Jagust WJ. Conscientiousness is associated with less amyloid deposition in cognitively normal aging. Psychol Aging 2020; 35:993-999. [PMID: 33166168 DOI: 10.1037/pag0000582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Little is known about the association between personality and Alzheimer's disease (AD) biomarkers, and existing results are inconsistent. We aimed to determine whether personality was associated with β-amyloid (Aβ) accumulation in cognitively normal aging. One hundred twenty-nine participants were included in this cross-sectional study. Personality was measured with the Big Five Inventory (BFI) and brain Aβ deposition was assessed with [11C] Pittsburgh compound B (PiB)-positron emission tomography (PET) imaging. Conscientiousness scores had a negative association with global PiB distribution volume ratio (DVR) in all participants after adjusting for age, sex, education, and vascular risk factors (β[SE] = -0.19[0.09], 95% confidence interval [CI: -0.35, -0.02], p = .031), while agreeableness, extraversion, neuroticism, and openness had no association with global PiB DVR. Assuming the relative stability of personality traits, these findings suggest that conscientiousness may protect against Aβ accumulation in cognitively normal aging through mechanisms that are as yet unknown. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved).
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Sutin AR, Stephan Y, Terracciano A. Self-Reported Personality Traits and Informant-Rated Cognition: A 10-Year Prospective Study. J Alzheimers Dis 2020; 72:181-190. [PMID: 31561364 DOI: 10.3233/jad-190555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Personality traits, such as higher Neuroticism and lower Conscientiousness, are associated with risk of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. A diagnosis of dementia relies, in part, on informant ratings of the individual's cognitive status. Here we examine whether self-reported personality traits are associated with four measures of informant-rated cognition up to a decade later. Participants from the Health and Retirement Study (N = 2,536) completed a five-factor model measure of personality in 2006 or 2008. Informants completed the 2016 Harmonized Cognitive Assessment Protocol (HCAP), which included ratings of the participant's current cognitive functioning and change in cognitive function over the last decade assessed with the IQCODE, Blessed, 1066, and CSID. Controlling for characteristics of the participant, informant, and their relationship, higher Neuroticism and lower Conscientiousness were associated consistently with worse informant-rated cognition. The association between Openness and better informant-rated cognition was due primarily to higher baseline cognitive function. Extraversion and Agreeableness were associated with better informant-rated cognition only among participants who were cognitively intact at follow-up. The present research suggests that knowledgeable informants are able to detect cognitive deficits associated with personality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelina R Sutin
- Florida State University College of Medicine, Tallahassee, FL, USA
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Pocnet C, Popp J, Jopp D. The power of personality in successful ageing: a comprehensive review of larger quantitative studies. Eur J Ageing 2020; 18:269-285. [PMID: 34220406 DOI: 10.1007/s10433-020-00575-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
In this paper, we highlighted links between personality traits and successful ageing through a systematic review of recent empirical studies. Particularly, we addressed the question of whether personality traits are related to successful ageing and, if so, why and how? Answers to this question provided, for example, arguments that supported personality's role in planning an individual's future based on self-knowledge, thereby contributing to a sense of identity throughout their life. Then, considering longitudinal studies, we examined whether personality is stable over one's life course, or does it change and, if so, why and under what conditions? Answers to this question gave substance to the idea that a stable personality allows for continuous and consistent development. In addition, certain personality changes are likely to allow an individual to develop the resilience to better adapt to life's challenges. Therefore, the arguments brought by these two questions can help clarify the modulating role of personality for successful ageing via health and well-being outcomes. These insights may contribute to the development of new prevention approaches, more focused on inter- and intraindividual differences, to promote successful ageing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cornelia Pocnet
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital Service of Old Age Psychiatry, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Geriatric Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Julius Popp
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital Service of Old Age Psychiatry, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Geriatric Psychiatry, Centre for Gerontopsychiatric Medicine, University Hospital of Psychiatry Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Daniela Jopp
- Institute of Psychology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research LIVES (NCCRs), University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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The Relation Between Personality and Biomarkers in Sensitivity and Conversion to Alzheimer-Type Dementia. J Int Neuropsychol Soc 2020; 26:596-606. [PMID: 31822309 PMCID: PMC7286789 DOI: 10.1017/s1355617719001358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The present study explored relationships among personality, Alzheimer's disease (AD) biomarkers, and dementia by addressing the following questions: (1) Does personality discriminate healthy aging and earliest detectable stage of AD? (2) Does personality predict conversion from healthy aging to early-stage AD? (3) Do AD biomarkers mediate any observed relationships between personality and dementia status/conversion? METHODS Both self- and informant ratings of personality were obtained in a large well-characterized longitudinal sample of cognitively normal older adults (N = 436) and individuals with early-stage dementia (N = 74). Biomarkers included amyloid imaging, hippocampal volume, cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) Aβ42, and CSF tau. RESULTS Higher neuroticism, lower conscientiousness, along with all four biomarkers strongly discriminated cognitively normal controls from early-stage AD individuals. The direct effects of neuroticism and conscientiousness were only mediated by hippocampal volume. Conscientiousness along with all biomarkers predicted conversion from healthy aging to early-stage AD; however, none of the biomarkers mediated the relationship between conscientiousness and conversion. Conscientiousness predicted conversion as strongly as the biomarkers, with the exception of hippocampal volume. CONCLUSIONS Conscientiousness and to a lesser extent neuroticism serve as important independent behavioral markers for AD risk.
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Aschenbrenner AJ, Petros J, McDade E, Wang G, Balota DA, Benzinger TLS, Cruchaga C, Goate A, Xiong C, Perrin R, Fagan AM, Graff‐Radford N, Ghetti B, Levin J, Weidinger E, Schofield P, Gräber S, Lee J, Chhatwal JP, Morris JC, Bateman R, Hassenstab J. Relationships between big-five personality factors and Alzheimer's disease pathology in autosomal dominant Alzheimer's disease. ALZHEIMER'S & DEMENTIA (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2020; 12:e12038. [PMID: 32587883 PMCID: PMC7311802 DOI: 10.1002/dad2.12038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Changes in personality characteristics are associated with the onset of symptoms in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and may even precede clinical diagnosis. However, personality changes caused by disease progression can be difficult to separate from changes that occur with normal aging. The Dominantly Inherited Alzheimer Network (DIAN) provides a unique cohort in which to relate measures of personality traits to in vivo markers of disease in a much younger sample than in typical late onset AD. METHODS Personality traits measured with the International Personality Item Pool at baseline from DIAN participants were analyzed as a function of estimated years to onset of clinical symptoms and well-established AD biomarkers. RESULTS Both neuroticism and conscientiousness were correlated with years to symptom onset and markers of tau pathology in the cerebrospinal fluid. Self-reported conscientiousness and both neuroticism and conscientiousness ratings from a collateral source were correlated with longitudinal rates of cognitive decline such that participants who were rated as higher on neuroticism and lower on conscientiousness exhibited accelerated rates of cognitive decline. DISCUSSION Personality traits are correlated with the accumulation of AD pathology and time to symptom onset, suggesting that AD progression can influence an individual's personality characteristics. Together these findings suggest that measuring neuroticism and conscientiousness may hold utility in tracking disease progression in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J. Aschenbrenner
- Charles F. and Joanne Knight Alzheimer Disease Research CenterDepartment of NeurologyWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Jennifer Petros
- Charles F. and Joanne Knight Alzheimer Disease Research CenterDepartment of NeurologyWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Eric McDade
- Charles F. and Joanne Knight Alzheimer Disease Research CenterDepartment of NeurologyWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Guoqiao Wang
- Division of BiostatisticsWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - David A. Balota
- Department of Psychological and Brain SciencesWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Tammie LS Benzinger
- Charles F. and Joanne Knight Alzheimer Disease Research CenterDepartment of NeurologyWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMissouriUSA
- Department of RadiologyWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Carlos Cruchaga
- Charles F. and Joanne Knight Alzheimer Disease Research CenterDepartment of NeurologyWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMissouriUSA
- Department of PsychiatryWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Alison Goate
- Department of NeuroscienceIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Chengjie Xiong
- Charles F. and Joanne Knight Alzheimer Disease Research CenterDepartment of NeurologyWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMissouriUSA
- Division of BiostatisticsWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Richard Perrin
- Division of NeuropathologyDepartment of Pathology & ImmunologyWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Anne M. Fagan
- Charles F. and Joanne Knight Alzheimer Disease Research CenterDepartment of NeurologyWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | | | - Bernardino Ghetti
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory MedicineIndiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisIndianaUSA
| | - Johannes Levin
- German Center for Neurodegenerative DiseasesMunichGermany
- Department of NeurologyLudwig‐Maximilians‐Universität MünchenMunichGermany
| | - Endy Weidinger
- German Center for Neurodegenerative DiseasesMunichGermany
- Department of NeurologyLudwig‐Maximilians‐Universität MünchenMunichGermany
| | - Peter Schofield
- Neuroscience Research AustraliaSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
- School of Medical SciencesUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Susanne Gräber
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE)TübingenGermany
| | - Jae‐Hong Lee
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of Ulsan College of MedicineAsan Medical CenterSeoulKorea
| | | | - John C. Morris
- Charles F. and Joanne Knight Alzheimer Disease Research CenterDepartment of NeurologyWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Randall Bateman
- Charles F. and Joanne Knight Alzheimer Disease Research CenterDepartment of NeurologyWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Jason Hassenstab
- Charles F. and Joanne Knight Alzheimer Disease Research CenterDepartment of NeurologyWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMissouriUSA
- Department of Psychological and Brain SciencesWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
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Ayers E, Gulley E, Verghese J. The Effect of Personality Traits on Risk of Incident Pre-dementia Syndromes. J Am Geriatr Soc 2020; 68:1554-1559. [PMID: 32488931 DOI: 10.1111/jgs.16424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Revised: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Personality traits have been shown to be associated with the risk of dementia; less is known about their association with pre-dementia syndromes. The aim of the present study was to examine the role of personality traits as predictors of incident pre-dementia, motoric cognitive risk (MCR), and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) syndromes. DESIGN We prospectively examined the association between five personality traits (neuroticism, extraversion, conscientiousness, agreeableness, and openness) and the risk of incident MCR or MCI. MCR builds on MCI operational definitions, substituting the cognitive impairment criterion with slow gait, and it is associated with increased risk for both Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia. SETTING Community based. PARTICIPANTS Nondemented participants (n = 524; 62% women) aged 65 years and older. MEASUREMENTS Cox proportional hazard analysis, adjusted for demographics and disease burden, was used to evaluate the risk of each pre-dementia syndrome based on baseline personality traits, measured using the Big Five Inventory. RESULTS Over a median follow-up of 3 years, 38 participants developed incident MCR, and 69 developed incident MCI (41 non-amnestic and 28 amnestic subtypes). Openness was associated with a reduced risk of developing incident MCR (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = .94; 95% confidence interval [CI] = .89-.99), whereas neuroticism was associated with an increased risk of incident non-amnestic MCI (aHR = 1.06; 95% CI = 1.01-1.11). These associations remained significant even after considering the confounding effects of lifestyle or mood. None of the personality traits were associated with MCI overall or amnestic MCI. CONCLUSION These findings provide evidence of a distinct relationship between personality traits and development of specific pre-dementia syndromes. J Am Geriatr Soc 68:1554-1559, 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmeline Ayers
- Department of Neurology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Emma Gulley
- Department of Neurology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Joe Verghese
- Department of Neurology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA.,Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
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Muñoz N, Gomà-i-Freixanet M, Valero S, Rodríguez-Gómez O, Sanabria A, Pérez-Cordón A, Hernández I, Marquié M, Mir I, Martín E, Benaque A, Ruiz A, Tarraga L, Boada M, Alegret M, on behalf of the FACEHBI study. Personality Factors and Subjective Cognitive Decline: The FACEHBI Cohort. Behav Neurol 2020; 2020:5232184. [PMID: 32148563 PMCID: PMC7049847 DOI: 10.1155/2020/5232184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Revised: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Individuals with subjective cognitive decline (SCD) have the perception of memory problems without showing impairment on standardized cognitive tests. SCD has been associated with an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease (AD). Neuroticism and openness personality dimensions have also been associated with SCD and AD. From the aforementioned, we aimed to ascertain whether the dimensions and traits defined by the Zuckerman-Kuhlman Personality Questionnaire (ZKPQ) differentiate between individuals with SCD and the general population (GP). A total of 187 participants with SCD and mild affective symptomatology recruited from the Fundació ACE Health Brain Initiative (FACEHBI) project completed the ZKPQ. Each SCD participant was matched by sex and age to an individual from the GP. Both samples included 71 men and 116 women with a mean age of 65.9 years. Results indicated that the SCD group scored significantly lower in Neuroticism-Anxiety and Activity than the GP group. Only Activity remained statistically significant in a multivariate analysis. These findings suggest that individuals with SCD have a low energy level and a dislike for an active and busy life. From the obtained results and knowing additional physical activities may delay the conversion from normal aging to cognitive impairment, we encourage promoting this lifestyle in daily routine. The assessment of personality may result in an SCD plus feature, which may serve as an upgrading strategy for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalia Muñoz
- Research Center and Memory Clinic, Fundació ACE, Institut Català de Neurociències Aplicades, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Montserrat Gomà-i-Freixanet
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Sergi Valero
- Research Center and Memory Clinic, Fundació ACE, Institut Català de Neurociències Aplicades, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
- Networking Research Center on Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Octavio Rodríguez-Gómez
- Research Center and Memory Clinic, Fundació ACE, Institut Català de Neurociències Aplicades, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
- Networking Research Center on Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Angela Sanabria
- Research Center and Memory Clinic, Fundació ACE, Institut Català de Neurociències Aplicades, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
- Networking Research Center on Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Alba Pérez-Cordón
- Research Center and Memory Clinic, Fundació ACE, Institut Català de Neurociències Aplicades, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Isabel Hernández
- Research Center and Memory Clinic, Fundació ACE, Institut Català de Neurociències Aplicades, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
- Networking Research Center on Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Marquié
- Research Center and Memory Clinic, Fundació ACE, Institut Català de Neurociències Aplicades, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
- Networking Research Center on Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Iolao Mir
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Elvira Martín
- Research Center and Memory Clinic, Fundació ACE, Institut Català de Neurociències Aplicades, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alba Benaque
- Research Center and Memory Clinic, Fundació ACE, Institut Català de Neurociències Aplicades, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Agustín Ruiz
- Research Center and Memory Clinic, Fundació ACE, Institut Català de Neurociències Aplicades, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
- Networking Research Center on Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Lluís Tarraga
- Research Center and Memory Clinic, Fundació ACE, Institut Català de Neurociències Aplicades, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
- Networking Research Center on Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Mercè Boada
- Research Center and Memory Clinic, Fundació ACE, Institut Català de Neurociències Aplicades, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
- Networking Research Center on Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Montserrat Alegret
- Research Center and Memory Clinic, Fundació ACE, Institut Català de Neurociències Aplicades, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
- Networking Research Center on Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - on behalf of the FACEHBI study
- Research Center and Memory Clinic, Fundació ACE, Institut Català de Neurociències Aplicades, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
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Segerstrom SC. Personality and Incident Alzheimer's Disease: Theory, Evidence, and Future Directions. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2020; 75:513-521. [PMID: 29846724 PMCID: PMC7768711 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gby063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Personality, especially the dimensions of neuroticism and conscientiousness, has prospectively predicted the risk of incident Alzheimer's disease (AD). Such a relationship could be explained by personality and AD risk having a common cause such as a gene; by personality creating a predisposition for AD through health behavior or inflammation; by personality exerting a pathoplastic effect on the cognitive consequences of neuropathology; or by AD and personality change existing on a disease spectrum that begins up to decades before diagnosis. Using the 5-dimensional taxonomy of personality, the present review describes how these models might arise, the evidence for each, and how they might be distinguished from one another empirically. At present, the evidence is sparse but tends to suggest predisposition and/or pathoplastic relationships. Future studies using noninvasive assessment of neuropathology are needed to distinguish these 2 possibilities.
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Henriques-Calado J, Duarte-Silva ME. Personality disorders characterized by anxiety predict Alzheimer's disease in women: A case-control studies. THE JOURNAL OF GENERAL PSYCHOLOGY 2019; 147:414-431. [PMID: 31833453 DOI: 10.1080/00221309.2019.1697637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
This research is geared toward the evaluation of current and pre-morbid personality psychopathology in Alzheimer's disease (AD). The study was conducted with four groups who were administered the Personality Diagnostic Questionnaire-4+, mainly in the form of individual interviews. Current measurement: AD Group, 44 female participants (M = 81.36 years); Control Group, 80 female participants from the population at large (M = 75.84 years). Pre-morbid measurement: AD Group Informants (n = 40); Control Group Informants (n = 42). The incidence of all clusters in clinical state are significant, and Cluster B incidence in pre-morbidity is evidenced. Cluster C is highlighted throughout the life course as a predictor. Logistic regression analyses showed that schizotypical, narcissistic, avoidant, obsessive-compulsive, pre-morbid schizotypical, pre-morbid histrionic, and pre-morbid obsessive-compulsive personality disorders, predicted the presence of AD diagnosis, accounting for 49% of the variance. These findings are relevant to research relating personality and psychopathology in Alzheimer's disease.
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Sutin AR, Stephan Y, Luchetti M, Terracciano A. Five-factor model personality traits and cognitive function in five domains in older adulthood. BMC Geriatr 2019; 19:343. [PMID: 31805866 PMCID: PMC6896269 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-019-1362-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Five-factor model (FFM) personality traits have been associated consistently with risk of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD). Less is known about how these traits are associated with functioning in specific domains of cognitive function in older adulthood. METHODS Participants (N = 2865) were drawn from the 2016 Harmonized Cognitive Assessment Protocol sub-study of the Health and Retirement Study (HRS). Participants completed a battery of cognitive tasks that measured performance in five domains: Memory (eight tasks), speed-attention-executive (five tasks), visuospatial ability (three tasks), fluency (one task), and numeric reasoning (one task). Participants completed an FFM personality measure as part of the regular HRS assessment in either 2014 or 2016. Linear regression was used to examine the association between the traits and each cognitive task and composite scores for the five domains, controlling for age, sex, race, ethnicity, and education. We also tested whether the associations were moderated by these sociodemographic factors or mental status. RESULTS Neuroticism was associated with worse performance on all of the cognitive tasks. Conscientiousness was associated with better performance across all five cognitive domains, although not necessarily with every task. Openness and Agreeableness were associated with better performance in all domains, except for numeric reasoning. Extraversion was associated with better speed-attention-executive and fluency. There was no robust evidence that the association between personality and cognition was moderated by sociodemographic characteristics or global cognitive function. CONCLUSIONS Personality traits have pervasive associations with functioning across five cognitive domains. Consistent with the literature on personality and risk of ADRD, Neuroticism and Conscientiousness were associated with cognitive performance in the expected direction in all domains. Extraversion was the only trait that showed domain-specific associations. The present research supports models of personality and health in the context of cognition and suggests that personality is associated with intermediate markers of cognitive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelina R. Sutin
- Florida State University College of Medicine, 1115 W. Call Street, Tallahassee, FL USA
| | | | - Martina Luchetti
- Florida State University College of Medicine, 1115 W. Call Street, Tallahassee, FL USA
| | - Antonio Terracciano
- Florida State University College of Medicine, 1115 W. Call Street, Tallahassee, FL USA
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Sutin AR, Stephan Y, Damian RI, Luchetti M, Strickhouser JE, Terracciano A. Five-factor model personality traits and verbal fluency in 10 cohorts. Psychol Aging 2019; 34:362-373. [PMID: 31070400 DOI: 10.1037/pag0000351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Personality traits, such as Neuroticism and Conscientiousness, are associated with cognitive outcomes across the life span, including cognitive function in young adulthood and risk of cognitive impairment and dementia in old age. Research on personality and age-related cognition has focused primarily on memory-related tasks and outcomes. The purpose of this research is to address the relation between Five Factor Model personality traits and another critical marker of cognitive function that has received less attention-verbal fluency. We examine this relation across adulthood in 10 cohorts (11 samples) that totaled more than 90,000 participants (age range 16-101). Participants in all samples reported on their personality traits and completed at least one fluency task (semantic and/or letter). A meta-analysis of semantic fluency (N = 86,044) indicated that participants who scored lower in Neuroticism, and higher in Extraversion, Openness, and Conscientiousness, retrieved more words, independent of age, gender, and education. These associations generally replicated for the letter fluency task (3 samples; N = 11,551). Moderation analysis indicated that the associations between personality and semantic fluency were stronger in older samples (except for Openness) and among individuals with lower education. This pattern suggests that these associations are stronger in groups vulnerable to severe cognitive impairment. Personality traits have pervasive associations with fluency tasks that are replicable across samples and age groups. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelina R Sutin
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Social Medicine, Florida State University College of Medicine
| | | | | | - Martina Luchetti
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Social Medicine, Florida State University College of Medicine
| | - Jason E Strickhouser
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Social Medicine, Florida State University College of Medicine
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Korthauer LE, Goveas J, Espeland MA, Shumaker SA, Garcia KR, Tindle H, Salmoirago-Blotcher E, Sink KM, Vaughan L, Rapp SR, Resnick SM, Driscoll I. Negative Affect Is Associated With Higher Risk of Incident Cognitive Impairment in Nondepressed Postmenopausal Women. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 2019; 73:506-512. [PMID: 29028908 DOI: 10.1093/gerona/glx175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2017] [Accepted: 09/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Positive affect (PA) and negative affect (NA) reflect subjective emotional experiences. Although related to depression and anxiety, these dimensions are distinct constructs representing affective states and patterns. Prior studies suggest that elevated depressive symptoms are associated with risk of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and probable dementia, but whether affective states are associated with cognitive impairment is still unknown. The present study examined relationships between baseline affective states and cognitive impairment (MCI, probable dementia) in nondepressed women. Method Baseline PA and NA were assessed in postmenopausal women (N = 2,137; mean age = 73.8 years) from the Women's Health Initiative Study of Cognitive Aging (WHISCA) using the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS). Women were followed annually for an average of 11.3 years; those with elevated depressive symptoms at baseline were excluded. Results Higher NA was associated with a higher risk of MCI and probable dementia, even after adjusting for important covariates including age, education, sociodemographic, lifestyle, and cardiovascular risk factors, global cognition, and hormone therapy assignment at baseline. PA was not significantly associated with either outcome. Conclusions We present the first evidence to date that greater NA, even in the absence of elevated depressive symptoms, is associated with higher risk of MCI and dementia. This suggests that NA may be an important, measureable and potentially modifiable risk factor for age-related cognitive decline.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joseph Goveas
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee
| | - Mark A Espeland
- Department of Biostatistical Sciences, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Sally A Shumaker
- Division of Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Katelyn R Garcia
- Department of Biostatistical Sciences, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Hilary Tindle
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Elena Salmoirago-Blotcher
- Department of Medicine, Warren Alpert School of Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Kaycee M Sink
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Gerontology and Geriatrics, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Leslie Vaughan
- Department of Social Sciences and Health Policy, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Stephen R Rapp
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Susan M Resnick
- Laboratory of Behavioral Neuroscience, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Aging, NIH, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Ira Driscoll
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
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Abstract
The objective of this article is to review and integrate interrelated areas of research on personality and Alzheimer's disease (AD). Prospective studies indicate that individuals who score higher on conscientiousness (more responsible and self-disciplined) and lower on neuroticism (less anxious and vulnerable to stress) have a reduced risk of developing dementia, even in the presence of AD neuropathology. Personality is also related to measures of cognitive performance and cognitive decline, with effect sizes similar to those of other clinical, lifestyle, and behavioral risk factors. These associations are unlikely to be due to reverse causality: Long-term prospective data indicate that there are no changes in personality that are an early sign of the disease during the preclinical phase of AD. With the onset and progression of dementia, however, there are large changes in personality that are reported consistently by caregivers in retrospective studies and are consistent with the clinical criteria for the diagnosis of dementia. The review also discusses potential mechanisms of the observed associations and emphasizes the need for prospective studies to elucidate the interplay of personality traits with AD neuropathology (amyloid and tau biomarkers) in modulating the risk and timing of onset of clinical dementia. The article concludes with the implications of personality research for identifying those at greater risk of AD and the potential of personality-tailored interventions aimed at the prevention and treatment of AD. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Angelina R Sutin
- Department of Behavioral Science and Social Medicine, Florida State University College of Medicine
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D'Iorio A, Garramone F, Piscopo F, Baiano C, Raimo S, Santangelo G. Meta-Analysis of Personality Traits in Alzheimer's Disease: A Comparison with Healthy Subjects. J Alzheimers Dis 2019; 62:773-787. [PMID: 29480186 PMCID: PMC5842787 DOI: 10.3233/jad-170901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of specific personality traits as factor risks of Alzheimer's disease (AD) has been consistently found, whereas personality traits specifically related to AD (after the diagnosis) have not been outlined yet. OBJECTIVE A meta-analysis of published studies was performed to determine whether AD patients have a distinctive personality trait profile compared to healthy subjects (HC), similar to or different from a premorbid personality profile consistently reported in previous studies. METHODS A systematic literature search was performed using PsycInfo (PROQUEST), PubMed, and Scopus. The meta-analysis pooled results from primary studies using Hedges' g unbiased approach. RESULTS The meta-analysis included 10 primary studies and revealed that, when the personality was evaluated by informant-rated measures, AD patients had significantly higher levels of Neuroticism, lower levels of Openness, Agreeableness, Conscientiousness, and Extraversion than HCs. When the personality was evaluated by self-rated measures, the results obtained from informants were confirmed for Neuroticism, Openness, and Extraversion but not for Agreeableness and Conscientiousness where AD patients and HCs achieved similar scores. CONCLUSIONS The meta-analysis revealed that high Neuroticism and low Openness and Extraversion are distinctive personality traits significantly associated with a diagnosis of AD when evaluated both self-rated and informant-rated measures. This personality trait profile is similar to premorbid one, which contributes to development of AD over time. Therefore, our findings indirectly support the idea of specific premorbid personality traits as harbingers of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfonsina D'Iorio
- Department of Psychology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Federica Garramone
- Department of Psychology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Fausta Piscopo
- Department of Psychology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Chiara Baiano
- Department of Psychology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Simona Raimo
- Department of Psychology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Gabriella Santangelo
- Department of Psychology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
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Henriques-Calado J, Duarte-Silva ME, Sousa Ferreira A. Depressive vulnerability in women with Alzheimer's disease: Relationship with personality traits and abnormal personality dimensions. J Affect Disord 2018; 241:182-191. [PMID: 30125822 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2018.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2018] [Revised: 07/18/2018] [Accepted: 08/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study sought to determine the evaluation of current and pre-morbid depressive vulnerability dimensions in Alzheimer's disease. Sidney Blatt´s personality developmental perspective, the Five-Factor model and Axis II personality disorders were taken as references. METHODS The study was conducted with two groups which were assessed using the Depressive Experiences Questionnaire, the NEO-FFI and the Personality Diagnostic Questionnaire-4+, in the form of individual interview sessions. Current personality measure: Alzheimer's disease Group, consisting of 44 female participants (MAge = 81.36 years); Pre-morbid personality measure: Alzheimer's disease Group Informants (n = 40). RESULTS Self-Criticism personality vulnerability is a general indicator of psychopathology. In pre-morbidity, Neuroticism (β = 0.41), Agreeableness (β = -0.63) and Conscientiousness (β = -0.08) predicted Self-Criticism, explaining 64% of the variance; additionally, Self-Criticism (β = 0.72) and Neediness (β = 2.05) predicted the PDQ-4+ total, explaining 58% of the variance. In terms of current personality, the PDQ-4+ total was predicted by Self-Criticism (β = 0.55), explaining 30% of the variance. LIMITATIONS The small size of the samples, especially since it is difficult to access individuals diagnosed with AD at the onset or in its early stages; measuring personality changes by means of retrospective assessment by proxies may have introduced some memory bias. CONCLUSIONS These findings are relevant to research relating depressive vulnerability to personality traits and psychopathology in Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Henriques-Calado
- Faculdade de Psicologia, Universidade de Lisboa, Alameda da Universidade, 1649-013 Lisboa, Portugal; CICPSI, Faculdade de Psicologia, Universidade de Lisboa, Alameda da Universidade, 1649-013 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | | | - Ana Sousa Ferreira
- Faculdade de Psicologia, Universidade de Lisboa, Alameda da Universidade, 1649-013 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto Universitário de Lisboa - Business Research Unit (BRU-IUL), Portugal.
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Berger-Sieczkowski E, Gruber B, Stögmann E, Lehrner J. Differences regarding the five-factor personality model in patients with subjective cognitive decline and mild cognitive impairment. NEUROPSYCHIATRIE : KLINIK, DIAGNOSTIK, THERAPIE UND REHABILITATION : ORGAN DER GESELLSCHAFT ÖSTERREICHISCHER NERVENÄRZTE UND PSYCHIATER 2018; 33:35-45. [PMID: 30328583 PMCID: PMC6400874 DOI: 10.1007/s40211-018-0292-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2018] [Accepted: 10/01/2018] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Personality and dementia are connected in different ways. A broad knowledge about personality and prodromal stages of dementia might be helpful to identify dementia as early as possible. Hence, personality differences between three cognitively impaired groups on the basis of patients’ self-assessments of personality traits and connections between personality and cognitive functioning were examined via a cross-sectional study. The sample consisted of cognitively impaired patients (N = 133), aged 50 and older, who came to a memory clinic due to cognitive complaints. The test procedure encompassed a cognitive screening, the Neuropsychological Test Battery Vienna (NTBV), and self-assessment questionnaires such as the Big Five Plus One Persönlichkeitsinventar (B5PO). While patients with subjective cognitive decline (SCD) did not differ from those with non-amnestic mild cognitive impairment (naMCI) concerning the different personality traits, patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) showed significantly lower scores for extraversion (p < 0.05), openness (p < 0.001), and empathy (p < 0.001) than patients with SCD as well as patients with naMCI. Thus, cognitively impaired groups mainly differ concerning personality traits depending on whether they do show memory decline or not.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn Berger-Sieczkowski
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Bernadette Gruber
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Elisabeth Stögmann
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Johann Lehrner
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria.
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Sadeq NA, Molinari V. Personality and its Relationship to Depression and Cognition in Older Adults: Implications for Practice. Clin Gerontol 2018; 41:385-398. [PMID: 29279022 DOI: 10.1080/07317115.2017.1407981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Personality is an important contributor to an individual's mental health and is consistently linked to the two most prevalent mental health conditions among older adults: dementia and depression. This review summarizes the current findings on personality and its association with cognitive decline and depression, as well as treatment outcomes and possible intervention strategies. METHODS Literature searches were conducted in Web of Science, PubMed, and PsycINFO. Search terms included 'personality traits,' 'depression,' 'treatment,' and 'older adults.' RESULTS Cognitive decline and depressive disorders are both associated with a common personality profile: high neuroticism, and low conscientiousness, extraversion, openness, and agreeableness. Across studies, the most consistent predictor of late-life depression, its course, and treatment outcomes is higher neuroticism. CONCLUSIONS Personality traits are associated with cognitive decline, as well as the diagnosis and course of late-life depression in older adults. However, formal personality assessment is not typically incorporated in clients' treatment plans, even though personality traits may influence treatment efficacy and outcomes. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Formal assessment of personality traits may be beneficial in terms of treatment adherence and outcomes for older adults. Tailored interventions that specifically target the client's strengths are likely to be well received by both clients and clinicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasreen A Sadeq
- a School of Aging Studies , University of South Florida , Tampa , Florida , USA
| | - Victor Molinari
- a School of Aging Studies , University of South Florida , Tampa , Florida , USA
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Hengartner MP. [A Patient´s Personality: A Frequently Ignored but Important Component in General Medical Practice]. PRAXIS 2018; 107:641-647. [PMID: 29871573 DOI: 10.1024/1661-8157/a002998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
A Patient´s Personality: A Frequently Ignored but Important Component in General Medical Practice Abstract. In general medical practice, a patient's personality is hardly considered and assessed. In this mini-review the author summarises how a comprehensive personality assessment may provide valuable patient information. Prospective effects of personality traits on general lifestyle as well as mental and physical health are presented. In addition, original research is introduced that shows meaningful associations between personality traits, clinical disease markers, and all-cause mortality. These findings are discussed with respect to selected etiological models. The studies illustrate that a personality assessment could be a useful aid for diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael P Hengartner
- 1 Departement für Angewandte Psychologie, Zürcher Hochschule für Angewandte Wissenschaften, Zürich
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Bessi V, Mazzeo S, Padiglioni S, Piccini C, Nacmias B, Sorbi S, Bracco L. From Subjective Cognitive Decline to Alzheimer’s Disease: The Predictive Role of Neuropsychological Assessment, Personality Traits, and Cognitive Reserve. A 7-Year Follow-Up Study. J Alzheimers Dis 2018; 63:1523-1535. [DOI: 10.3233/jad-171180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Bessi
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Salvatore Mazzeo
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Sonia Padiglioni
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Benedetta Nacmias
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Sandro Sorbi
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- IRCCS Don Carlo Gnocchi, Florence, Italy
| | - Laura Bracco
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Szücs A, Szanto K, Aubry JM, Dombrovski AY. Personality and Suicidal Behavior in Old Age: A Systematic Literature Review. Front Psychiatry 2018; 9:128. [PMID: 29867594 PMCID: PMC5949532 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2018.00128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Accepted: 03/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Suicide rates generally peak in the second half of life and are particularly high in older men; however, little is known about the contribution of dispositional factors to late-life suicide. Maladaptive personality traits have been strongly implicated in suicide among younger adults, but the extent to which they continue to play a role in late-life suicidal behavior is unclear. We also do not know whether specific personality profiles interact with the stressors of aging to cause suicidal behavior. METHODS We sought to synthesize the data on personality pathology in late-life suicidal ideation and behavior via a systematic review using the PubMed, Google Scholar, PsycInfo, Scopus, Ovid, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane search engines. The included key words related to three descriptors: "personality," "suicide," and "elderly." Included articles evaluated personality based on the Five-Factor Model (FFM) or ICD/DSM diagnostic criteria in older samples with minimum age cutoffs of 50 years or older. Our original search identified 1,183 articles, of which 31 were retained. RESULTS Included studies were heterogeneous in their design and personality measurements. Studies of categorical personality disorders were particularly scarce and suggested a stronger association with late-life suicidal ideation than with death by suicide. Only obsessive-compulsive and avoidant personality traits were associated with death by suicide in old age, but only in studies that did not control for depression. All personality constructs were positively linked to suicidal ideation, except for histrionic personality, which emerged as a negative predictor. Studies employing the FFM also indicated that older adults who died by suicide were less likely to display a maladaptive personality profile than elderly suicide attempters and younger suicide victims, having both lower levels of neuroticism and higher levels of conscientiousness than these comparison groups. Nevertheless, older suicide victims displayed lower levels of openness to experience than younger victims in two samples. CONCLUSION Maladaptive personality manifests in milder, subthreshold, and more heterogeneous forms in late-life vs. early-life suicide. An inability to adapt to the changes occurring in late life may help explain the association between suicide in old age and higher conscientiousness as well as obsessive-compulsive and avoidant personality disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Szücs
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Decision Neuroscience and Psychopathology Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Katalin Szanto
- Decision Neuroscience and Psychopathology Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Jean-Michel Aubry
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Alexandre Y. Dombrovski
- Decision Neuroscience and Psychopathology Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
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The Thick of It: Freely Wandering in Academic Medicine. Am J Geriatr Psychiatry 2018; 26:603-609. [PMID: 29433846 DOI: 10.1016/j.jagp.2017.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2017] [Accepted: 12/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple studies have found Conscientiousness to be protective against dementia. The purpose of this study is to identify which specific aspects, or facets, of Conscientiousness are most protective against cognitive impairment and whether these associations are moderated by demographic factors and/or genetic risk. METHODS Health and Retirement Study participants were selected for analysis if they completed the facets of Conscientiousness measure, scored in the range of normal cognitive functioning at the baseline personality assessment, and had at least one follow-up assessment of cognition over the up to 6-year follow-up (N = 11 181). Cox regression was used to test for risk of incident dementia and risk of incident cognitive impairment not dementia (CIND). RESULTS Over the follow-up, 278 participants developed dementia and 2186 participants developed CIND. The facet of responsibility had the strongest and most consistent association with dementia risk: every standard deviation increase in this facet was associated with a nearly 35% decreased risk of dementia; self-control and industriousness were also protective. Associations were generally similar when controlling for clinical, behavioral, and genetic risk factors. These three facets were also independent predictors of decreased risk of CIND. CONCLUSIONS The present research indicates that individuals who see themselves as responsible, able to control their behavior, and hard workers are less likely to develop CIND or dementia and that these associations persist after accounting for some common clinical, behavioral, and genetic risk factors.
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Sutin AR, Stephan Y, Luchetti M, Terracciano A. Self-reported personality traits are prospectively associated with proxy-reported behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia at the end of life. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2018; 33:489-494. [PMID: 28869657 PMCID: PMC5807122 DOI: 10.1002/gps.4782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2017] [Accepted: 07/27/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) are among the most challenging aspects of Alzheimer disease for patients and their families. Previous studies have found associations between informant-reported retrospective personality and BPSD; we test whether prospective, self-reported personality predicts who will experience these symptoms. METHODS Deceased participants from the Health and Retirement Study who had evidence of cognitive impairment at the end of life (N = 1988) were selected to examine whether self-reported five-factor model personality traits, measured up to 8 years before death, were associated with proxy-reported BPSD. RESULTS Neuroticism was associated with increased risk of the 7 BPSD: got lost in familiar places, wandered off, were not able to be left alone, experienced hallucinations, suffered from depression, had periodic confusion, and an uncontrolled temper. These associations were not moderated by age, gender, race, or education. Conscientiousness was associated with fewer symptoms overall and especially with lower risk of getting lost in familiar places and not being able to be left alone. CONCLUSIONS The present research indicates that self-reported personality, particularly Neuroticism, is associated prospectively with risk for a wide range of behavioral symptoms for individuals who had cognitive impairment at the end of life. The use of self-reported personality traits can help aid in identifying who is most at risk for behavioral symptoms. Such information may be useful for nonpharmacological interventions tailored to the individual's personality to reduce the prevalence and burden of these BPSD.
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