Multidimensional intervention in individuals with mild cognitive impairment: a pilot nonrandomized study.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Gerontology
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Growing demand for non-pharmacological strategies to enhance cognitive function in mild cognitive impairment (MCI).
• Exploration of multidimensional interventions tailored to individual needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the short-term effects of a multidimensional intervention on cognitive function in individuals with MCI.
• To assess the efficacy of a tailored intervention program based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF).

Main Methods:

• Pilot study involving 24 individuals with MCI, divided into an intervention (13) and a control (11) group.
• Intervention group received seven 1-hour multidimensional therapy sessions and health education, tailored using the ICF framework.
• Control group received health education only; cognitive function was reassessed after one week.

Main Results:

• The intervention group showed a statistically significant improvement in the total score of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) compared to the control group (p<0.001).
• No significant differences were found in individual cognitive domain scores between the groups.
• Regression analysis indicated that higher baseline abstraction and modified Barthel index scores were associated with greater improvements in the intervention group.

Conclusions:

• Short-term multidimensional intervention demonstrates potential cognitive benefits for individuals with mild cognitive impairment.
• The ICF framework can guide personalized interventions for cognitive enhancement.
• Further research is warranted to confirm these findings and explore long-term effects.