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Updated: Sep 10, 2025
Working Memory Training for Older Participants: A Control Group Training Regimen and Initial Intellectual Functioning Assessment
Published on: September 20, 2020
Effects of a combined intervention of music-based movement, neuromodulation-synchronized cognitive training, and
1School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China; College of Health Services and Management, Xuzhou Kindergarten Teachers College, Xuzhou, 221000, China.
Background:
To enhance cognitive intervention effectiveness, we developed MMNCE-integrating music-based exercise, multi-domain cognitive training with neurostimulation, and emotion-regulation education-grounded in cognitive aging theories.
Methods:
In this three-arm RCT, we compared MMNCE with cognitive training plus sham neurostimulation (MCS) and a non-intervention control (NIC) among cognitively healthy (CH) and cognitively impaired (CI) older adults. A total of 166 participants (mean age: 68.95 ± 6.27; 70 CI) from community centers in Xuzhou, China, were randomized. Cognitive outcomes (MoCA and executive function) were assessed at baseline, 12, 24, and 36 weeks.
Results:
At 12 weeks, 124 participants completed the intervention. Independent of the baseline cognitive status, compared to NIC, MMNCE showed larger effect sizes than MCS, with significant improvements in MoCA total scores and domains, including visuospatial ability, naming, attention, abstract reasoning, and episodic memory (η²p = 0.15 to 0.54). MMNCE outperformed MCS on global cognition and abstraction (MoCA total η²p = 0.07, 95% CI: [0.01, 0.18]; abstraction η²p = 0.11, 95% CI: [0.03, 1]). Compared to MCS, MMNCE had a greater impact on global cognition in CH participants (η²p = 0.11) while on abstraction in the CI group (η²p = 0.19). In addition, MMNCE had sustained effects on global cognition. MMNCE also improved physical function and reduced depressive symptoms after intervention, which were not observed in the MCS group.
Conclusions:
This study highlights MMNCE as an effective nonpharmacological intervention for preserving cognitive function in older adults. Further research is warranted to explore its impact on individuals across various stages of cognitive decline.
