Prevention of memory decline in older adults with mild cognitive impairment using leisure activities: A systematic review

Abstract

Background/Objective: As the elderly population rises, there is more concern regarding the aging process on the brain. Cognitive function is expected to decline as part of the natural aging process, but in several individuals, they have a steeper decline into mild cognitive impairment (MCI), which is a stage between normal decline and dementia. This review aims to look at interventions in participants with MCI to find the most beneficial intervention in slowing memory decline. Design: This was a systematic review looking at nine studies and their interventions in MCI. seven of the studies were randomized controlled trials while two of the studies were non- randomized controlled trials. Articles were found using Medline/PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, CINAHL, Web of Science, PsychINFO, WHO Library and Scopus were used. The American Geriatrics Society and American Society of Consultant Pharmacists websites were searched as well, along with Clinical Trials, dissertations, theses, and general searches from Google and Google Scholar. The search was initially performed in December 2019 and a final search in January 2020. Results: Nine studies were reviewed with 929 total participants found that studies using interventions that involved physical movement (Tai Chi, dance, yoga) had statistically significant results in slowing progression of memory decline over their control groups, while the studies using memory games and music did not. Conclusion: Interventions that include physical activities appeared to have a more statistical significance on slowing memory decline than non-physical activities. Practitioners should consider encouraging their aging patients to participate in cognitively stimulating physical activities if applicable.