Effect of the Turkish Strategy Game Mangala on Cognitive Functions in Individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease: A Pilot Study

Abstract

"Cognitive impairment is a common symptom of Alzheimer's Disease (AD). Memory loss, difficulty completing familiar tasks, problems with language, disorientation to time and place, poor judgment, problems with abstract thinking, misplacing things, changes in mood and personality, and loss of initiative are some of the common symptoms of cognitive impairment in individuals with AD. This study aimed to examine the effect of the Turkish intelligence and strategy game Mangala on cognitive functions in individuals with AD. Material and Methods: Individuals with AD residing in the Denizli Elderly Care and Rehabilitation Center were included in this study. In addition to the demographic characteristics, the level of anxiety and general cognitive functions were assessed with Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale (HAD) and Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale (MoCA), respectively. Both the treatment and control groups had daily physiotherapy and rehabilitation sessions. Results: The mean age of the treatment (n=6) and control (n=6) group were 81.16±9.49 and 80±3.85 years. There was no significant difference between the groups before treatment(p>0.05). MoCA values improved significantly in the treatment group (p<0.05), and there was no significant difference between the groups (p>0.05). Discussions: According to the findings of our research, which examined the impact of Mangala on cognitive functions in individuals diagnosed with AD, it was observed that playing Mangala resulted in significant improvements in their cognitive abilities. In preventing cognitive decline in patients with AD, keeping the neural connections in the brain strong is needed. Games such as Mangala may play an important role in maintaining strong connections among these cognitive functions. Conclusions: Games, such as the Turkish intelligence and strategy game Mangala, that are easy-to-play, entertaining, and adaptable for patients with AD challenge working memory and mental agility, could be part of the rehabilitation plan for clinical practitioners working in this field."