Feasibility and preliminary effects of a cognitive intervention program using the Pair Go game: A pilot study

Ai Iizuka ¹, Hisao Taki ², Kenji Toba ³

⁰Research Team for Social Participation and Healthy Aging, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Itabashi-ku, Japan.

Geriatrics & Gerontology International +

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July 29, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Pair Go, a social board game, improved cognitive functions like memory and attention in older adults. The program was feasible and reduced loneliness, suggesting benefits for cognitive and mental well-being.

Area Of Science

Gerontology
Cognitive Psychology
Social Interaction Studies

Background

Strategic board games like Go enhance cognitive functions, including visual working memory.
Traditional Go play can present social limitations and aversion to losing.
Pair Go offers a collaborative alternative to traditional Go.

Purpose Of The Study

To develop and assess the feasibility of a Pair Go intervention program.
To evaluate the program's impact on cognitive functions and mental health in older adults.
To foster social interaction through a novel board game approach.

Main Methods

Twenty-three older adults with no prior Go experience participated in a 12-week Pair Go program.
Feasibility assessed via attendance, satisfaction, and willingness to continue.
Cognitive function and mental health were measured pre- and post-intervention.

Main Results

High attendance rates and program satisfaction were observed.
Significant improvements noted in executive function, attention, and memory.
A significant reduction in self-reported loneliness was found post-intervention.

Conclusions

The Pair Go program is feasible for community-dwelling older adults.
Preliminary evidence suggests positive effects on cognitive function and mental health.
Pair Go may be a beneficial intervention for enhancing well-being in older populations.

Keywords:

Go game board game cognition loneliness social network