Cognitive function, working memory, attention, and coordination are higher-level functions sharing a complex relationship. Limited evidence exists on the effectiveness of cognitive function interventions to improve cognitive outcomes. We aimed to analyze the efficacy of cognitive function training (CFT) on cognitive function in older adults with dementia. A double-blind, two-arm, parallel-group randomized controlled trial was conducted in community care centers of Northern Taiwan. We recruited 70 participants older adults with dementia (mean age: 82.3 ± 6.46 years) were randomly assigned to experimental (CFT) and control groups (passive information activities) (n = 35/group). Both groups underwent 30 minutes per session, three sessions per week for eight weeks, for a total of 24 sessions. The outcome indicators were cognitive function assessed by MMSE. Measurements were obtained at pretest, posttest, and at 1 month after the training had ended. The results were analyzed by a generalized estimating equation, which indicated that the CFT maintained total MMSE scores for 1 month after intervention (ß = 1.54, p = .001). Recall memory improved significantly in the immediate and 1-month follow-up posttests (ß = 0.51, p = .001; ß = 0.77, p = .003), but orientation, attention, calculation, visual-spatial ability, and language did not improve after the training. Our findings demonstrate that CFT produces favorable effects in improving cognitive function, and recall memory among older adults with dementia. Therefore, we suggest that community healthcare settings conduct regular activities and long-term training to delay cognitive decline among older adults.

Authors:
Kuei-Ru Chou, Taipei Medical University, Taiwan

About the Presenter(s)
Dr Kuei-Ru Chou is a University Professor/Principal Lecturer at Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan in Taiwan

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