Web-Based Group Conversational Intervention on Cognitive Function and Comprehensive Functional Status Among Japanese...

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Cognitive Science
• Digital Health

Background:

• Social communication is vital for cognitive function and well-being in older adults.
• Community-dwelling older adults often face challenges maintaining social engagement.
• Web-based interventions offer a scalable approach to support social interaction in aging populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of the "Photo-Integrated Conversation Moderated by Application version 2" (PICMOA-2) intervention.
• To assess PICMOA-2's impact on cognitive performance, frailty, and psychosocial indicators in older adults.
• To identify potential target attributes for remote social interventions.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial with 1:1 allocation comparing PICMOA-2 to a control group.
• Participants (aged 65+) engaged in a 6-month web-based group conversation intervention (PICMOA-2) or a control condition.
• Primary outcome: verbal fluency; Secondary outcomes: neuropsychiatric tests, frailty, social status, and well-being.

Main Results:

• Recruitment of 66 participants completed in July 2023.
• The intervention is ongoing, with completion expected by end of February 2024.
• Post-intervention evaluation scheduled for March 2024.

Conclusions:

• This randomized controlled trial protocol evaluates a 6-month social intervention (PICMOA-2) for older adults.
• The study aims to provide evidence on the benefits of social interventions for cognitive function.
• Findings will help identify effective strategies for remote social interventions in aging populations.