Can cognitive leisure activity prevent cognitive decline in older adults? A systematic review of intervention studies

Abstract

The aims of this systematic review were to investigate what kind of cognitive leisure activities have been used in intervention studies targeting older adults, and whether these activities improve cognitive function or inhibit cognitive decline. Based on the PRISMA declaration, we searched keywords using three electronic databases: PubMed, PsycINFO and Psy-cARTICLES. Intervention studies involving cognitive leisure activities with cognitive assessments set as outcomes were included. We regarded cognitive leisure activities as activities for enjoyment or well-being that cause intellectual stimulation (e.g. reading, playing board games). To investigate the influence of each activity on cognitive domains, multicomponent programs (e.g. combined music and art) were excluded. In total, 20 studies were included in the evaluation. Consequently, intervention studies related to arts, writing, board games, reading, handicrafts, a crossword puzzle and learning computer skills were identified. Of the 20 studies, 13 showed improvement in some cognitive domain. In 12 of these 13 studies, the intervention effects were not observed in a specific cognitive domain; rather, the intervention effects were observed across multiple cognitive domains and on working memory. The results of the present review suggest that cognitive function in older adults can be improved through cognitive leisure activity interventions. Activities related to learning new skills, that cause strong intellectual stimulation and that include communication elements were considered particularly effective tools. However, as the number of studies is small, more high-quality research needs to be accumulated.

Is the Internet Really Ruining Your Memory? Keep Reading as Modifiable Protective Factor Against Cognitive Impairment

“…Therefore, our results confirm, what is reflected in a review, in which leisure activities involving brain stimulation such us: use of internet, boarding games and reading, are shown as protective to CI [30]. Moreover, it was proved that reading increases our brain connectivity in areas related to language and sensory region [31].…”

Association of Leisure Activities With Cognitive Impairment and Dementia in Older Adults in Colombia: A SABE-Based Study

“…The public health implications from this finding are related to the importance of increasing late-life participation in leisure activities, their potential role in late-life cognition, and its benefits in people with and without cognitive impairment (52). Nevertheless, further research is needed to determine the amount of exposure, intervention period, and frequency for designing an effective intervention (53). The available research evidence suggests that it is not too late to increase physical and cognitive activity in old age (14) and policymaking for dementia primary prevention needs evidence for non-pharmacological interventions aiming to increase cognitive reserve (54).…”

The Effects of a Community Animation Program in a Rural Setting on the Participants’ Quality of Life

“…Finally, regarding other factors associated with SQoL and WB, the CAP did have a positive impact on mental health and perceived loneliness (both have small effect sizes). In other studies, social leisure activities have been suggested to promote relaxation (Packer, 2008), reduce anxiety (Binnie, 2010), and be associated with increased self‐reported health (Iizuka et al, 2019; Leadbetter & O’Connor, 2013). These results coincide with those obtained for the EG regarding an improvement in psychological health and SWB and PWB.…”