An Online, Person-Centered, Risk Factor Management Program to Prevent Cognitive Decline: Protocol for A Prospective...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Public Health
• Gerontology

Background:

• Identified modifiable risk factors for dementia exist, but their impact on cognitive outcomes after modification is uncertain.
• Community-dwelling, middle-aged adults with a family history of dementia are a key demographic for cognitive decline prevention research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To test if a behavior modification intervention targeting personalized risk factors prevents cognitive decline.
• To evaluate the efficacy of the BetterBrains program in preserving cognitive function.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, randomized controlled trial involving 1510 cognitively normal adults aged 40-70.
• Participants screened for vascular, mental health, sleep, and cognitive/social engagement risk factors.
• Intervention group received telehealth-based, person-centered risk factor management (BetterBrains); control group received psychoeducation.

Main Results:

• Primary outcome: favorable cognitive performance at 24 months, defined as no decline in specific cognitive tests.
• Cognitive function assessed using Cogstate tests and Cognitive Function Instrument.

Conclusions:

• The BetterBrains intervention aims to prevent cognitive decline by tailoring risk factor management.
• The program's personalized approach and community linkage are designed to maximize engagement and adherence for preserving cognitive function in at-risk individuals.