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

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.