Multi-domain intervention program on cognitive function in community-dwelling older adults: Pilot study

Recent interventions to prevent cognitive impairment include aerobic-cognitive training and educational programs on cognitive function.

To compare the effectiveness of a multidomain intervention and a sports program (control) on objective cognitive function (OCF), subjective memory function (SMC), frontal assessment battery, cognitive reserve, depression, anxiety, and stress in older adults through a non-randomized study.

The intervention consisted of aerobics and cognitive exercises (exercise on a checkered mat) and educational motivational support. The intervention group received 60 minutes of training 3 days a week for 24 weeks, and the control group 60 minutes of physical training 2 days a week for 24 weeks. Independent older adults were included. The baseline and final values of the outcome variables were obtained. The relative risk for SMC, as well as the median differences, the effect estimate, and ANCOVA for continuous variables were obtained.

The characteristics of the intervention group (n = 11) and control group (n = 10) were similar at baseline, except for age. OCF, SMC, and neuropsychological symptoms showed a positive trend in the intervention group, whereas in the control group did not. The intervention was significant in SMC (RR: 0.5; 95%CI 0.4-0.8), and the control showed a substantial decrease in OCF compared with the intervention group [F(1) = 8.4; p = 0.009; դp = 0.30].

The results suggest that the 3-component program may be more effective than the control program in improving SMC and OCF.