Development and preliminary evaluation of a dynamic cognitive training program for healthy older adults
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Abstract
Background: Thailand is rapidly transitioning into a super-aged society, increasing the prevalence of age-related cognitive decline. Preserving cognitive function through evidence-based interventions is essential for active aging and independence.
Objectives: This study aimed to design, develop, and evaluate the content validity and feasibility of a multimodal dynamic cognitive training program through a systematic try-out process with healthy older adults.
Materials and methods: The study employed a three-phase research and development (R&D) framework: 1) program design based on neuroplasticity and the dynamic interactional model, 2) content validation by five experts, and 3) evaluating the program through a try-out with the target group (N=5, aged 64-73) over six weeks (12 sessions). Evaluation metrics included feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary cognitive outcomes using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), Digit Span Test, and subtests of the Dynamic Loewenstein Occupational Therapy Cognitive Assessment-Geriatric Version (DLOTCA-G).
Results: The cognitive training program was developed for improving attention, memory, visuospatial skills, and executive function. The cognitive training program, grounded in theories of information processing, neuroplasticity, cognitive retraining, and dynamic interaction, used a customized, multimodal framework. Over six weeks with biweekly 60-minute sessions, it combined cognitive exercises across three difficulty levels with physical activity. The program achieved an overall the Index of Item-Objective Congruence (IOC) of 0.98. During the Phase 3 try-out, participants demonstrated high engagement and 100% session attendance. Evaluation of cognitive outcomes showed positive trends in global cognition (100% of participants) and visuospatial function (100%).
Conclusion: The dynamic cognitive training program is valid and feasible. The try-out phase provided critical insights for program refinement, supporting its application in community-dwelling older adults to mitigate cognitive decline.
Article Details
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.
Personal views expressed by the contributors in their articles are not necessarily those of the Journal of Associated Medical Sciences, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University.
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