Cognitive Stimulation and Strength Training in Older Adults With Cognitive Impairment

University of Jaén81 enrolled

Overview

This program focuses on integrating cognitive exercises and strength training for older adults experiencing mild cognitive impairment (MCI). It aims to enhance cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and problem-solving skills through various stimulating activities. At the same time, it incorporates strength training exercises to improve muscle mass, balance, and overall physical mobility. By addressing both cognitive and physical aspects of health, the initiative seeks to provide comprehensive benefits that may lead to improved quality of life for older adults with MCI. The research contributes valuable insights into the importance of holistic interventions in mitigating the effects of cognitive decline and promoting physical well-being in this vulnerable population.

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Allocation

RANDOMIZED

Purpose

TREATMENT

Masking

TRIPLE

Enrollment

Conditions

Cognitive Impairment

Interventions

The experimental group will participate in a 12-week program to enhance cognitive functions and physical strength through twice-weekly sessions of 45 minutes to 1 hour. Cognitive stimulation activities will improve memory, attention, processing speed, and executive functions through memory games, recall exercises, and tasks that promote focus and quick thinking. Each session will be led by a neuropsychology or occupational therapy professional who will tailor activities to individual needs. Strength training will also occur twice a week, focusing on exercises that strengthen major muscle groups, improve balance, and enhance coordination. Participants will use light weights, resistance bands, and bodyweight exercises, with modifications based on their physical levels. A specialized trainer will supervise the program, progressively adjusting exercise intensity to ensure safety and optimize benefits.

Eligibility

Sex: ALLMin age: 60 Years

Medical Language ↔ Plain English

Inclusion Criteria: * People over 60 years of age. * Diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) confirmed by neuropsychological evaluation or by a health professional. * Ability to participate in moderate physical activities and perform strength exercises with supervision. * Willingness and ability to regularly attend sessions of the cognitive stimulation and physical training program. * Signed informed consent authorization, indicating that they understand and accept the objectives and activities of the program. Exclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of moderate or severe dementia or other advanced cognitive impairment that prevents participation in the program. * Severe or limiting physical conditions, such as heart disease, respiratory disease, or musculoskeletal injuries, that make it impossible to perform strength exercises. * Psychiatric disorders (such as major depression or schizophrenia) or substance use that affect commitment or ability to follow the program activities. * Participation in other cognitive stimulation or physical training programs or interventions in parallel, which may interfere with the evaluation of the effects of the program. * Inability to understand and follow simple instructions, or lack of family or social support to attend the program if necessary.

Outcomes

Primary Outcomes

Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA)

Instrument that examines the skills of attention, concentration, executive functions, memory, language, visuoconstructive abilities, calculation and orientation and the maximum score is 30.