A Randomised Clinical Trial of Cognitive Activity for Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment

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Australia’s population is ageing rapidly and so is the frequency of age-related disorders. Dementia is one of the most frequent mental health disorders of older people and one of the leading causes of years of life lost due to disability in Australia. Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) in old age is considered an important clinical state potentially predictive of future cognitive decline. There is increasing evidence that the onset of dementia can be delayed with targeting potentially modifiable risk factors. In older adults, frequent participation in mentally stimulating leisure activities has been associated with stronger cognitive (abilities such as memory) performances and reduced risk of dementia. Further, the rate of cognitive and functional decline can be influenced by cognitive intervention strategies, though few randomised control studies have explored these findings with individuals who have a diagnosis of MCI. The primary focus of this research is to determine whether a structured program of cognitive activity (CA) can delay progression of cognitive decline amongst older adults with MCI. 160 older adults will be randomised (by chance, like the flip of a coin) to either a 10 week CA intervention with a focus on cognitive training and rehabilitation techniques or a 10 week control educational intervention providing information on aging and retirement. Their cognitive performance, quality of life and functional level will be monitored during follow-up. The proposed study will improve the understanding of possible modifying factors of cognition and highlight the potential of intervention in an older age population. The obtained results will have implications for policy recommendations regarding health care resources and facilitate changes in the approach and management of individuals with MCI.