A program of exercise, brain training, and lecture to prevent cognitive decline.

OBJECTIVE

We examined the benefits of a community-based program combining physical exercise, cognitive training, and education on dementia and lifestyle habits.

METHODS

This crossover open-label trial included 141 community-dwelling elderly people with suspected mild cognitive decline (MCD). Subjects were assigned to a 6-month intervention-first/6-month observation-second (INT-OBS) group or an OBS-INT group. The 6-month intervention consisted of 2 h of physical exercise, cognitive training, and classroom study or rest once weekly. Primary outcome was change in Touch Panel-type Dementia Assessment Scale (TDAS) score.

RESULTS

TDAS score improved significantly during the intervention period compared with the observation period for all subjects (P < 0.05). Some physical functions also improved significantly during the intervention period compared with the observation period in the OBS-INT group (P < 0.05).

INTERPRETATION: This community-based program improved both cognitive and physical function in elderly people with suspected MCD.