Identifying Cross Series Cognitive Data Similarities Across NSHAP and NHATS

Abstract

This paper provides an overview of a methodology used to identify and organize health questions and measures related to Alzheimer’s and other cognitive impairments using data maintained or supported by NACDA. This project specifically used the National Social Life, Health and Aging Project (NSHAP) and the National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS) as our comparison proof of concept. The methodology used in this process identifies variables that measure Alzheimer’s disease (A.D.) and other cognitive impairments within NSHAP and NHATS as well as sociodemographic, and comorbidity data commonly associated with increased risk of A.D. and other cognitive impairments. As both NSHAP and NHATS represent multiple waves of longitudinal follow-up information we created longitudinal metadata files that allow for the comparison of A.D. and other cognitive impairments risk across time using these two studies. The project generated enhanced metadata using DDI Lifecycle software to make the discovery of A.D. and other cognitive impairments variables more straightforward and increase the user-friendly elements of these studies. Finally, the proposed supplement included the creation of a customized bibliography (see Appendix) of the use of NSHAP and NHATS data in the analysis of A.D. and other cognitive impairments research, allowing researchers to more easily review the existing body of literature using these data resources. This report describes NACDA’s effort to increase the availability, usability, and discoverability of A.D. and other cognitive impairments information in these studies, encouraging use of NSHAP and NHATS for Alzheimer’s related research and adding to our understanding of how cognitive issues change across time.