Effects of a Nature-Based Intervention on Cognitive Function in Older Adults With Mild Cognitive Impairment

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) represents a high-risk stage for dementia, yet limited non-pharmacological interventions are accessible. Although nature-based interventions have potential cognitive benefits, empirical validation for MCI populations remains limited. This study aims to address this gap.

Fifty older adults with MCI were recruited from a psychiatric outpatient clinic and local dementia centers. The intervention group included 25 participants who received a four-session nature-based intervention over 4 weeks, while controls, matched for age and sex, received no intervention. Pre- and post-tests assessed cognitive, emotional, physiological, and physical functions.

Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores demonstrated a significant time×group interaction [F(1,45)=10.226, p=0.003]. The nature-based intervention group showed that MMSE scores increased significantly (t=-2.270, p=0.034). In contrast, the control group exhibited a significant decline (t=2.262, p=0.034). No significant time and group interactions were found for emotional, physiological, or physical outcomes.

This short-term, nature-based intervention yielded cognitive benefits in older adults with MCI, which supported its feasibility as an accessible, non-pharmacological intervention. Further longitudinal randomized controlled trials should confirm sustained effects across multiple domains.