Parallel randomized controlled feasibility trials of the “Active Brains” digital intervention to protect cognitive health in adults aged 60–85

• DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.962873
• Publication Date: 2022-09-20T09:37:23Z
• Authors: Rosie Essery; Sebastien Pollet; Katherine Bradbury; Max J. Western; Elisabeth Grey; James Denison-Day; Kirsten A. Smith; Victoria Hayter; Joanne Kelly; Jane Somerville; Beth Stuart; Taeko Becque; Jin Zhang; Joanna Slodkowska...; Fiona Mowbray; Anne Ferrey; Guiqing Yao; Shihua Zhu; Tony Kendrick; Simon Griffin; Nanette Mutrie; Sian Robinson; Helen Brooker; Gareth Griffiths; Louise Robinson; Martin Rossor; Clive Ballard; John Gallacher; Shanaya Rathod; Bernard Gudgin; Rosemary Phillips; Tom Stokes; John Niven; Paul Little; Lucy Yardley
• Keywords: Cognitive Training; Cognitive Decline; Cognitive Intervention

Introduction Multidomain interventions to address modifiable risk factors for dementia are promising, but require more cost-effective, scalable delivery. This study investigated the feasibility of “Active Brains” digital behavior change intervention and its trial procedures. Materials methods Active Brains aims reduce cognitive decline by promoting physical activity, healthy eating, online training. We conducted 12-month parallel-design randomized controlled trials amongst “lower scoring” ( n = 180) “higher adults aged 60–85. Results collected 67.2 76.1% our primary outcome (Baddeley verbal reasoning task) data score” groups, respectively. Usage indicated overall satisfactory engagement with activity content (which did not sustained engagement), training was limited. Uptake additional brief telephone support appeared be higher in trial. Preliminary descriptive trends might indicate a protective effect against decline, further investigation fully-powered is required answer this definitively. Discussion Whilst initial uptake modest, it line typical usage other interventions, early indications from analysis behavioral suggest that exploration potential benefits warranted. The also identified minor modifications procedures, particularly improve primary-outcome completion. Further will now seek determine efficacy protecting performance 60–85 varied levels existing performance.