Variations in cognition by human capital characteristics: a cross-sectional analysis of Brazilian older adults

INTRODUCTION: The productivity of individuals is assumed to decline upon reaching old age when cognitive ability is considered. This assumption is false, especially if the human development characteristics of people are analyzed, which highlights the need to recognize the heterogeneity among subpopulations. METHODS: Using Wave two of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study on Aging, conducted from 2019 to 2021, this study explored the onset and speed of cognitive aging among older individuals aged at least 60 in Brazil, with reference to their education and income levels. RESULTS: It was observed that although higher human capital characteristics yielded results toward later cognitive decline, women benefited more from having higher educational attainment levels. Such a pattern was similar among men and increased income levels. Disparities in cognitive performance, whether from education or income, were greatest at age 60, and this advantage diminished as age progressed. CONCLUSION: Viewing the older population as homogeneous in terms of health function is restrictive. It should be recognized that variations in social status affect individuals’ health status into old age and therefore their respective potential for productivity should be maximized.