Cognitive reserve preserves cognitive function in obese individuals

Rachel M. Galioto, Michael L. Alosco, Mary Beth Spitznagel, Kelly M. Stanek, John Gunstad

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

19 Scopus citations

Abstract

Obesity is an established risk factor for cognitive impairment. Theories of cognitive reserve suggest that premorbid factors, such as intellectual ability, may attenuate the expression of cognitive impairment due to age or disease. The current study examined whether cognitive reserve, defined as estimated premorbid intellectual ability, moderates the relationship between obesity and cognitive function in obese adults. Participants without major medical or psychological conditions completed a computerized battery of neuropsychological tests. Hierarchical regression models found a significant interaction between BMI and cognitive reserve for attention/executive function and memory, suggesting that cognitive reserve attenuates the expression of obesity-related cognitive impairment.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)684-699
Number of pages16
JournalAging, Neuropsychology, and Cognition
Volume20
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - Nov 1 2013
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Cognitive function
  • Executive function
  • Integneuro
  • Memory
  • Obesity

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Neuropsychology and Physiological Psychology
  • Experimental and Cognitive Psychology
  • Geriatrics and Gerontology
  • Psychiatry and Mental health

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