INTEGRATIVE ANALYSIS OF LONGITUDINAL STUDIES ON AGING AND DEMENTIA (IALSA)

Abstract

Cross-validation of research findings across independent longitudinal studies is essential for building the most effective evidence base for successful cumulative science in gerontology. In many cases, cross-study differences in measurements and sample composition (e.g., ability level, education, language) impede the utility of pooled data analysis, particularly in the case of longitudinal studies. Harmonization can occur at the levels of research question, statistical models, and measurements, permitting synthesis of results for understanding ways in which birth cohort, country, culture, and issues of mortality and selection relate to outcomes and differences across studies. The goal of the Integrative Analysis of Longitudinal Studies of Aging and Dementia (IALSA: NIH/NIA P01AG043362) research network encompassing over 100 studies from around the world is to maximize opportunities for international reproducible research and cross-validation across heterogeneous sources of evidence by evaluating comparable statistical models, with comparison of the pattern and magnitudes of effects at the construct level. This symposia describes network activities and methods and provides multiple examples for rigorous cross-study comparison based on the coordinated analysis approach.