Comparative Cognitive Performance of 60-Year-Old Asian and Western Pilots on the CogScreen Test: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

The study aimed to investigate the cognitive performance of the aged 60 and above with different ethnicity (Asian and Western pilots) on the CogScreen test particularly focusing on deductive reasoning and motor speed. A quantitative research approach was used . The current study utilized the cross-sectional approach and data was collected at point of time. The sample size consisted of 100 active pilots aged group 60 from each ethnicity group. The CogScreen test was used to assess cognitive functions. The statistical analyses were conducted by calculating t-tests and regression to compare performance between the two groups. The overall results showed a significant difference in deductive reasoning between Asian and Western pilots which can be seen from the T score (t = -2.77, p = 0.0076). The results showed that western pilots performed better on deductive reasoning as compared to Asian pilots. However, no significant difference was found in motor speed between the two groups (t = -1.60, p = 0.116). These findings suggest that while ethnicity may influence certain cognitive abilities in older pilots, it may not impact others. Overall , both grouped preformed below the expected range as per cog- screen standardized norms on both tasks regardless of their ethnicity. The current study's limitations include a narrow focus on two cognitive abilities and the use of a single assessment tool. However , the future research should consider a broader range of cognitive assessments and factors influencing pilot performance to provide a more comprehensive understanding.