Prospective Impacts of Social Participation Activities on Cognitive and Psychopathological Statuses in Community-Dwelling Older Adults

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objectives This study investigated the impact of social activities on cognitive functioning and psychopathological symptoms. Methods Participants aged 55 or older were enrolled through communities. Initial measures assessed demographic data, neuropsychological functioning, psychopathological state, and happiness. Social activities were evaluated using a modified 12-item tool, with 3–4 activities as the cutoff. Follow-up after 6–9 months included Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Beck Depression Inventory – II (BDI-II), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), and Patient Health Questionnaire-15 (PHQ-15) measurements. Predictive models for psychiatric and cognitive statuses were built using multiple linear regression, adjusting for baseline conditions. Results Initially, 516 older individuals enrolled, with 403 undergoing follow-up. During follow-up, the low participation group reported lower MMSE scores, higher BAI scores, and increased PHQ-15 risk. Negative correlations between social activity numbers and PHQ-15 results were found. Engagement in social clubs correlated positively with higher MMSE scores, while regular interactions with one’s adult child(ren) were linked to decreased BAI scores. Conclusions The quantity of social activities was associated with lower somatic distress. Social club engagement positively influenced cognition, and regular interactions with one’s adult child(ren) mitigated anxiety among older individuals. Clinical implications Enough types of social activities, participating in social clubs, and adequate interactions with children protected against psychopathologies.