Effect of a Mental Stimulation Program of Computer and Internet Learning on Cognitive Functions and Wellbeing in Older Community-Dwelling Mexicans

Abstract

Background: It has been reported that Mental Stimulation (MS) has a positive effect on cognitive functions and wellbeing. In this sense, different training activities have been proposed for MS such as theater, learning a new language, playing a musical instrument and computing, however, there are few studies on older adults in Latin American countries. For this reason, the purpose of the present study was to determine the effect of a mental stimulation program (MSP) of computer and Internet learning on cognitive functions and wellbeing in older community-dwelling Mexicans. Method: A quasi-experimental pilot study was carried out in a convenience sample of 27 adults aged 60 to 69 years, without knowledge of the use of computers and Internet, without chronic non-communicable diseases, depression or cognitive impairment. Two groups were formed: (i) experimental (EG), n = 16 and (ii) control (CG), n = 11. The EG participated in an MSP in which 20 theoretical/practical sessions of two hours each were given, two times a week, on computer and Internet. The CG did not participate in any scheduled activity. All participants were measured before and after the intervention program in processing speed (PS), cognitive inhibition (CI), working and episodicmemory (WM and EM), visuospatial processing (VP), life satisfaction (LS) and positive and negative emotions (PE and NE). Results: After participation in the MSP, the EG showed significantly higher scores on the EM and VP tests compared to the CG (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Our findings suggest that an MSP of computer and Internet learning improves episodicmemory and visuospatial processing in older community-dwelling Mexicans.

How Does Participation in Formal Education or Learning for Older People Affect Wellbeing and Cognition? A Systematic Literature Review and Meta-Analysis

“…Subjects across eight studies revealed an increase in feelings of community, sociability, and pleasure following formal learning (Ellis, 2018; Kinney & Rentz, 2005; Mendoza-Ruvalcaba & Arias-Merino, 2015; Panayotoff, 1993; Richeson et al, 2007; Rusted et al, 2006; Sánchez-Nieto et al, 2019; Ullán et al, 2013). There was also a reduction in loneliness reported for three computer and internet training interventions (Blažun et al, 2012; Chilcott & Smith, 2011; White et al, 2002), while depression was reported to be reduced in four studies across various learning types (Rusted et al, 2006; Sánchez-Nieto et al, 2019; Shapira et al, 2007; White et al, 2002). Two studies reported that previous formal education, and higher education levels increased intervention success/adoption (Cutler et al, 2016; Richeson et al, 2007).…”

“…In addition, there was an increased sense of self and life satisfaction and an increase in self-confidence or confidence with computer use. Subjects across eight studies revealed an increase in feelings of community, sociability, and pleasure following formal learning (Ellis, 2018;Kinney & Rentz, 2005;Mendoza-Ruvalcaba & Arias-Merino, 2015;Panayotoff, 1993;Richeson et al, 2007;Rusted et al, 2006;Sánchez-Nieto et al, 2019;Ullán et al, 2013). There was also a reduction in loneliness reported for three computer and internet training interventions (Blažun et al, 2012;Chilcott & Smith, 2011;White et al, 2002), while depression was reported to be reduced in four studies across various learning types (Rusted et al, 2006;Sánchez-Nieto et al, 2019;Shapira et al, 2007;White et al, 2002).…”

Telegerontología comunitaria. Una opción para el envejecimiento saludable durante la pandemia de la COVID-19

“…Publicación bimestral se han limitado a brindan orientaciones y consultas médicas a través de los programas de "Teleasistencia" y "Telecuidado". 25 Por lo anterior, la "Telegerontología Comunitaria", representa una estrategia factible que se debe promover y desarrollar para problemas emergentes como la Covid-19. Aunque también constituye una opción que permitirá fortalecer los vínculos entre las personas mayores con la población joven, además de que el uso de la tecnología per se es una opción para la estimulación mental.…”