Cognitive Intervention in a Patient with Lewy Bodies through Origami: A Case Report

Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) is a form of Neurocognitive Disorder that can lead to impairments in memory, attention, cognitive flexibility, and mood. Cognitive intervention has been scientifically recognized as an effective tool in supporting older adults, with or without clinical conditions, utilizing various stimulation tools. In this context, origami folding emerges as a potential clinical intervention.

The objective is to evaluate the effects on cognition, mood, and emotional processes of an older adult with LBD who participated in a cognitive stimulation program using origami.

The protocol included eight sessions of ⁓60 min, involving the use of six origami models of increasing difficulty. To test the efficacy of the protocol, the instruments mini-mental state examination-second edition, quick intelligence test, attention test battery, five digits test, and corsi block-tapping test were applied, along with the scales geriatric depression scale-15, geriatric anxiety inventory, satisfaction with life scale, and positive and negative affect schedule-10. Results: Improvements were observed in visuospatial memory, attention skills, intelligence, and executive functions.

The results of this study align with the benefits of cognitive stimulation reported in the literature.

The impact of origami stimulation proved effective on cognitive processes and mood, in addition to being a playful, easily accessible, and implementable approach.