Tablet- and Group-Based Multicomponent Cognitive Stimulation for Older Adults With Mild Cognitive Impairment: Single-Group Pilot Study and Protocol for Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background: Cognitive stimulation therapy is a group-based psychological treatment for people with dementia as well as those with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and is shown to improve both cognition and quality of life. Previous studies have indicated the potential to benefit from the use of technological devices in group interventions. Objective: The pilot study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a tablet- and group-based multicomponent cognitive stimulation therapy (MCST) for enhancing cognitive functions among older adults with MCI. The following study aims to report the protocol for a trial evaluating whether the MCST program is affecting individuals with MCI. Methods: In the first study, 30 individuals with MCI participated in 10 sessions of the tablet- and group-based MCST group. A subsequent protocol study will compare tablet-based MCST, tablet-based cognitive stimulation therapy, and control groups among 93 individuals with MCI. All participants will be recruited from older adults living in semiurban communities. Intervention groups will be facilitated by trained therapists, nurses, or psychologists. The study will be assessed by a pre- and posttest evaluation, including computer-based neuropsychological tests and electroencephalography assessment. The effects of several indicators, such as cognitive functions, behavioral, and emotional, will be analyzed as being indexed by their neurophysiological data. Results: The pilot study showed significant cognitive improvement (P