The brain health champion study: A health coaching intervention with mobile technology in older adults with mild cognitive impairment or risk factors for dementia – An update

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundExtensive evidence suggests that adherence to brain‐healthy behaviors can slow the rate of cognitive decline and decrease risk of dementia. We previously demonstrated that a health coaching intervention, including weekly phone calls, facilitated adherence to recommendations for brain‐healthy behaviors in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or mild dementia. The current study extends this research to include cognitively normal, older adults at risk for dementia and adds a mobile health platform, two‐way texting, and wearable fitness trackers, to the health coaching intervention. Although subjects are still enrolling, the number of participants has increased substantially from our earlier report and data show promising trends.MethodParticipants, age 60‐79, with MCI or dementia risk factors are being randomized to the Brain Health Champion (BHC) intervention or a counseling and education (CE) control. In BHC, with guidance from a health coach, participants set personalized goals, reinforced by weekly video calls, mobile messaging, one dietitian consult, and 30‐minute in‐person or virtual visits every six weeks. In CE, educational materials sent every six weeks supplement usual care. Changes in physical activity, diet, social/cognitive engagement, neuropsychological test scores, and metrics of behavioral health are being measured over six months using questionnaires, wearable fitness trackers, and photographed food logs. Maintenance of behavior changes is also being assessed six months post‐intervention.ResultThirty‐four participants have enrolled in the study, with 27 (15 BHC, 12 CE) completers to date. All participants successfully operated the mobile technology by themselves or with caregivers’ assistance. Current trends show BHC participants increased participation in cognitive activities and adherence to a Mediterranean diet based on photographed food logs compared to CE. Participants in both arms show significantly increased scores on the composite neuropsychological assessment (pre‐ and post‐study), quality of life measures, and an increase in active minutes from pre‐ to post‐assessments.ConclusionTrends in the data indicate that the BHC program may be effective for promoting brain‐healthy behaviors, particularly increasing cognitive activities and Mediterranean diet adherence. Additionally, participating in a brain health study, regardless of intervention, may promote meaningful changes in quality of life and improved cognition.