Boosting Cognitive Training through Social Engagement: Impacts on Older Adults With Subjective Cognitive Decline

This study examined the combined effects of StrongerMemory program (brain exercises involving reading, writing, and math) and weekly social engagement on cognitive, behavioral, and emotional outcomes in older adults with subjective cognitive decline (SCD). A 12-week randomized controlled trial was conducted with 50 participants, who were randomly assigned to either a control group (StrongerMemory only) or an intervention group (StrongerMemory plus weekly social engagement). Cognitive function (MoCA), perceived cognitive decline (SCD-Q), health behaviors (GHPS), and emotional well-being (SWEMWBS) were assessed at baseline and post-intervention. Both groups showed significant cognitive improvements (increased MoCA, decreased SCD-Q) post-intervention. ANCOVA revealed significantly better cognitive function in the intervention group, demonstrating the synergistic benefits of social engagement. The intervention group also experienced enhanced emotional well-being. These findings suggest that incorporating social engagement into cognitive training programs enhances their effectiveness in improving cognitive function and emotional well-being in older adults with SCD, potentially mitigating further decline. While the findings are promising, this exploratory study's small sample size resulted in modest achieved power (0.64), which may limit the generalizability of the results.