Environmental enrichment prevents depression-like behaviours induced by immune system activation in male mice.

BackgroundSocial robots have emerged as cutting‐edge technology in the care of older adults, with potential applications in cognitive stimulation. However, the interactive capabilities of these robots remain limited. This study aimed to compare engagement and satisfaction among long‐term care home (LTCH) residents during cognitive activities facilitated by a social robot versus a human research assistant.MethodThe study utilized the social robot Robios, programmed in Java. A total of 24 residents (13 women; mean age = 80.4 years, SD = 9.3; mean education = 8.8 years, SD = 4.4) with cognitive impairment or dementia (mean MMSE = 20.2, SD = 4.8) participated. Each resident completed two applications (Memory Game and Music Quiz) with Robios and with a human research assistant in a counterbalanced design. Engagement with tasks in both modalities was assessed using a semi‐structured questionnaire based on the Menorah Park Engagement Scale (0‐10 points), derived from the observations of two independent research assistants. Additionally, participants rated their satisfaction with the activities (0‐5 points) after completing them with Robios and the human research assistant. The Wilcoxon signed‐rank test was used to compare engagement and satisfaction across the two modalities (Robios vs. Human).ResultEngagement was significantly higher during the Memory Game when facilitated by Robios (mean = 9.2, SD = 1.0 vs. mean = 8.3, SD = 0.9, p = 0.009). Similarly, for the Music Quiz, engagement was greater with Robios (mean = 9.2, SD = 0.8 vs. mean = 8.7, SD = 0.6, p = 0.02). However, no significant differences were observed in task satisfaction between the two modalities for either the Memory Game or the Music Quiz.ConclusionSocial robots seem to enhance engagement among LTCH residents during cognitive stimulation tasks. However, task satisfaction remains comparable when these activities are completed with either a social robot or a human research assistant.

BackgroundAustralia's National Dementia Action Plan 2024‐2034 highlights the challenging post‐diagnostic journey often faced by people with dementia and care partners. A novel multidisciplinary, multicomponent program was designed to address this gap as an outpatient clinic at a rehabilitation hospital. The ‘SPICE Program’ (Sustainable Personalised Interventions for Cognition, Care, and Engagement) is delivered in small groups and individual appointments by allied health professionals over twelve‐weeks. Program components include Cognitive Stimulation Therapy, the Care Of People with Dementia (COPE®) Program, care partner education, exercise and dietetics. This study presents analysis of the experiences and perspectives of participants who completed SPICE during 2022‐2024.MethodSemi‐structured interviews were audio‐recorded after program completion. Transcripts were grouped and underwent content analysis by four researchers to identify codes and themes driven from a line of enquiry that prompted for self‐reported changes and program feedback.ResultParticipants for each of the first ten SPICE Programs included up to seven people with dementia (n = 60, M=79yrs; 42% female) and their care partners (n = 58; M=75yrs; 67%female) living in the community. People with dementia shared themes of SPICE being ‘stimulating and useful’ with social ‘connections’, ‘enjoyment’ and increased ‘confidence’ through new friendships with peers and staff. Care partners reported positive changes in their loved one with similar themes of ‘connection’, ‘enjoyment’, ‘being understood’, as well as enhancements in physical and social capacity. Self‐reflection by care partners involved themes of ‘belonging’, ‘sharing and learning together', increased ‘understanding’ and caring ‘breakthroughs’.ConclusionSelf‐reported and proxy‐reflections on the SPICE program highlight the positive experiences and wellbeing impacts for a majority of participants. The group context offered important opportunities for social connection for participants, acting as a catalyst that enhanced potential benefits in other domains of well‐being. Findings extend the evidence for wider availability of early post‐diagnostic care in Australia with further research needed to develop implementation guidelines for comparable programs.

BackgroundPopulation aging poses challenges in terms of cognitive health, requiring effective interventions. Cognitive stimulation has shown promising results in healthy older adults. This study investigated the effects of a structured cognitive stimulation program on older adults without cognitive impairment.Method189 older adults randomized into three groups: Training Group (TG); Active Control Group (ACG); and Passive Control Group (PCG). The primary outcome of the study was cognitive performance assessed by the following tests: Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination‐Revised (ACE‐R); Short Cognitive Performance Test (SKT); Forward and Backward Digit Span Test; Trail Making Test A and B; Phonemic Verbal Fluency Test for the letters FAS; Abacus Calculation Test. Secondary outcomes were psychosocial variables, which included the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS); the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS); the Control, Autonomy, Self‐Realization and Pleasure (CASP‐19); and the Minimum Map of Relationships of Older Individuals (MRRI). The intervention consisted of cognitive stimulation 72 sessions conducted weekly for an 18‐month period, with assessments performed over 24 months.ResultTraditional analyses showed significant statistical differences on delta analyses on the verbal fluency variables letter F and calculus test, indicating improvement in the TG during the 24‐month assessment compared to the other experimental groups. Z‐scores revealed improvements in cognitive functions, such as working memory and logical reasoning. Benefits were maintained after 12 and 18 months. Also, the TG showed improvements over 24 months in the form of reduced depressive symptoms and better self‐perceived memory performance compared to the ACG and PCG. Cognitive stimulation demonstrated potential cognitive benefits, with positive implications for healthy aging. Continuous multimodal strategies may enhance long‐term effects, making this intervention a promising tool for cognitive preservation in older individuals.ConclusionThe profile of older adults assessed may have contributed to the efficacy of the training, given that many were active, socially engaged, high‐educated individuals compared with the general Brazilian older population. The low drop‐out rate demonstrates the high level of adherence to the intervention. The cognitive training was likely more attractive to participants because it sought to improve both cognitive performance and psychosocial variables concomitantly.

BackgroundIntergenerational programs reduce dementia risk and promote healthy ageing through social engagement, reduced loneliness, and cognitive stimulation. However, older men remain underrepresented, limiting the generalisability of findings and development of tailored interventions. This study explored barriers preventing male participation and strategies to improve engagement.MethodThree focus groups with eight Australian men aged 60 and older explored participation barriers, recruitment reactions, and program preferences. Sessions were recorded, transcribed, and analysed using Speak Ai. A complementary survey with 220 participants (mean age = 72.89, SD = 5.26 years) evaluated mock recruitment materials with varying age and gender tones. Participants rated their willingness to participate and provided preferences for study formats, group sizes, and age ranges.ResultFocus groups revealed that traditional masculinity norms were a key barrier. Participants viewed intergenerational programs as caregiving roles conflicting with their identity. terms like ‘relationships’ were unrelatable, while action‐oriented phrases such as ‘mentoring’ and ‘skill‐sharing’ resonated. Concerns included child safety, societal stigma, and police check requirements. Structured, skill‐based activities like coaching and physical tasks were preferred.Survey findings supported these themes. Gender‐neutral (18.6%) and feminine (18.2%) titles were more appealing than masculine titles (14.5%). Age‐positive titles (18.6%) were favoured over age‐neutral (13.6%) and age‐negative (16.4%) messaging. Research benefits (45%) were more persuasive than societal (30.5%) or personal benefits (5%). Neutral gendered blurbs (48.2%) and age‐positive blurbs (35.5%) attracted the most interest. Participants overwhelmingly preferred small groups of 2–10 people (71.4%) and mixed‐gender settings (89.1%). In‐person formats (57.7%) were favoured over online‐only (26.4%). Interaction with primary school‐aged children (50%) was preferred to younger or older age groups.ConclusionThese findings highlight the need for recruitment strategies that resonate with older men's values. Relatable, action‐focused language, structured activities, and transparent safety protocols can enhance engagement, improving inclusivity in intergenerational research and supporting efforts to reduce dementia risk and promote healthy ageing.

BackgroundAlzheimer's disease (AD) disproportionately affects individuals with low socioeconomic status (SES), who face heightened risks partly due to unhealthy lifestyles and limited access to preventive care. In Spain, over 1.2 million people have dementia, with projections estimating a threefold increase by 2050. Addressing health disparities through adapted interventions is critical. The PENSA project, part of the World‐Wide FINGERS network, has demonstrated efficacy in improving cognitive health through a multimodal lifestyle intervention (MLI) in subjects meeting subjective cognitive decline criteria. However, as commonly observed in clinical trials, the study predominantly attracted volunteers with a median‐high SES. This study aims to adapt the PENSA MLI for low SES older adults using participatory and co‐creation methods.MethodThis feasibility study employs a mixed‐methods design, collecting qualitative data via community dialogues, focus groups, and co‐creation workshops, followed by quantitative assessments from a pilot study. The intervention, incorporating diet, physical activity, and cognitive stimulation, building upon the previous PENSA project's prior work based on the Finger's model, will be adapted in collaboration with end‐users, key stakeholders, and healthcare providers from the Integral Health Area (AIS) Barcelona Litoral Mar, a low SE resources area. Different recruitment strategies will be implemented and assessed to proactively engage individuals from diverse backgrounds, fostering inclusivity in the study sample. A 3‐month qualitative phase will inform a subsequent 3‐month pilot trial.Thirty community‐dwelling individuals aged ≥60 years with an SES Composite Scale score <16, cognitive performance at or slightly below the expected level (MoCA scores ≥24 points) and a LIBRA score ≥5 will be recruited using snowball sampling and traditional healthcare invitations. Feasibility will be evaluated through participation rates, adherence, satisfaction, and health outcomes.ResultThe study will provide insights into the feasibility of adapting an evidence‐based MLI for low SES populations. Expected outcomes include high participation rates, acceptability, and improved health behaviors.ConclusionThe PENSA‐IMPACT study seeks to reduce dementia risk in low SES populations by providing an adapted, culturally relevant intervention. If successful, it could inform future escalable interventions to promote equity in dementia prevention.

BackgroundThe Geriatric Mental Health Outpatient Services (GMHOS) at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) in Toronto, Ontario, deliver evidence‐based care to older adults with complex mental health conditions. GMHOS currently offers limited group programming tailored to the unique needs of its four outpatient clinics: Neuropsychiatry, Memory, Late Life Anxiety and Mood Disorders and General Geriatrics. Existing therapies, such as “Learning the Ropes” and “Goal Management Training,” address cognitive and emotional needs but leave significant gaps for conditions like anxiety, depression, and dementia. Challenges related to resources and accessibility further constrain scalability.This quality improvement project aims to (1) gather insights from current GMHOS program facilitators regarding usability, satisfaction, effectiveness, and areas for improvement, and (2) conduct a literature review of academic research to identify evidence‐based, nonpharmacological interventions delivered in outpatient settings that can enhance mental health outcomes for geriatric patients.MethodA mixed‐methods approach was employed. Structured questionnaires were administered to GMHOS group facilitators to collect feedback on current programming using validated recovery‐oriented tools, including the American Association of Community Psychiatrist Recovery‐Oriented Service Evaluation (AACP‐ROSE) and the Consumer Recovery Outcomes System (CROS). A comprehensive literature search was also conducted by a research librarian using PubMed and PsycINFO databases to identify evidence‐based nonpharmacological therapies for outpatient geriatric mental health care.ResultFacilitators identified strengths in current programs, such as reminiscence therapy and art‐based interventions, in promoting engagement and emotional well‐being. However, they identified gaps in addressing cultural diversity, scalability, and accessibility. Suggested improvements included participant‐driven activities, structured goal‐setting, and enhanced staff training. Preliminary findings from the literature review identified therapies such as Yoga‐Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (Y‐CBT), Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST), mindfulness‐based interventions, and life review therapy as effective for addressing conditions like anxiety, depression, and dementia.ConclusionFacilitator feedback and evidence from the literature emphasize the importance of tailoring interventions to participant needs while fostering scalable and inclusive approaches. Integrating evidence‐based therapies like Y‐CBT and CST alongside enhancements to existing programs can address critical service gaps in GMHOS. Future steps include piloting new therapies, evaluating their long‐term impacts, and ensuring sustained improvement in outcomes for geriatric outpatients.

BackgroundCognitive and physical activity can reduce dementia risk among older adults. We have developed and validated a Brief Evaluation of Activities of Daily Living and Cognition (BEAN) test that is performance‐based, where a spoon is used to acquire and transport objects. It is unclear, however, whether its relationship to cognition and daily functioning is mediated through cognitive or physical (i.e., cardiovascular/musculoskeletal) mechanisms. Based on prior work, we hypothesized the BEAN test would be related to the level of engagement in cognitive but not physical activities.MethodData were collected in the Banner Sun Health Research Institute's Center for Healthy Aging's Longevity Study of community‐dwelling adults age 50+ with no cognitive impairment (based on self‐report and Clinical Dementia Rating=0) and are independent in personal/home affairs (based on self‐report). A total of 290 participants (mean±SD age = 79.3±8.5 years; mean±SD education = 15.9±1.3 years; 71.7% female) completed the BEAN test during at least one annual visit. Participants also completed the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) (97%), the Rapid Assessment of Physical Activity (RAPA) (95%), and the Cognitively Stimulating Activities Questionnaire (CSA‐Q) (81%), depending on when they were enrolled. Only cross‐sectional data were analyzed in this study. BEAN scores reflect intraindividual variability across four consecutive trials of the task (where higher variability is worse).ResultGeneralized linear mixed models with a gamma distribution confirmed that the BEAN test and MoCa were related (b=‐.68; p = .0025), controlling for age, sex, and education. The BEAN test was also related to the CSA‐Q (b=‐.24; p = .02). Furthermore, mediation analysis showed that the BEAN test had a negative total effect (b=‐0.07; p = .0002) on MoCA that was mediated through the CSA‐Q (b=‐.12; p = .0033). However, the BEAN test and RAPA were not related (p = .50), and RAPA scores did not mediate the relationship between BEAN scores and MoCA scores (p = .10).ConclusionResults support the use of the BEAN test as a measure of cognition and daily functioning rather than as a physical/motor assessment. Furthermore, the BEAN test appears to be sensitive to the mechanisms by which cognitive engagement, rather than physical activity, positively impact cognition in community‐dwelling older adults.

Community‐based organizations (CBOs) meet a plethora of older adult needs in contemporary society including programs for individuals living with Mild Cognitive Impairment, Alzheimer's and other dementias. With an established presence, trust and growing number of caregiving, health promotion and chronic disease management programs in place, CBOs are well positioned to implement evidence‐based interventions (EBI) in the real world. With funding by the Administration for Community Living, Alzheimer's Disease Program Initiative, CaringKind, a dementia focused CBO, implemented evidence‐based Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) and evaluated program and participant outcomes. CST is a globally practiced small group multi‐session EBI with demonstrated impact on cognition, depression and quality of life. Fourteen themed sessions delivered virtually or in‐person by trained facilitators actively stimulate cognitive processes through dialogue and multi‐sensory based activities. CaringKind's pre/post preliminary program data shows 76% (n = 153) of participants were ‘completers’ (attending 12+ program sessions); 48% of participants (n = 97) had decreased signs of depression on the Geriatric Depression Scale and 20% (n = 19) moved out of the depressed range; and 56% (n = 57) had increased hope and resilience on the Positive Psychology Outcomes Measure. Participant (n = 37) and proxy report (n = 38) qualitative surveys reveal positive impact on meeting current needs, connecting to peers, and perceived benefit for participant's future. Final data and outcomes will be presented at AAIC 2025. Lessons learned about barriers/facilitators to identify and enroll individuals in real‐world dementia programs will be shared, as well as feasibility challenges associated with finding, training and funding qualified staff to deliver sustainable evidence‐based programs as a CBO and service provider.

The rapid development of digital technology has increased gadget use among young children and raised concerns about its impact on cognitive development during a crucial phase of brain growth that requires appropriate stimulation to support thinking, memory, and problem-solving abilities. This paper aims to analyze the impact of excessive gadget use on the cognitive development of early childhood, identify factors that trigger high gadget use, and describe preventive efforts that can be undertaken. The method used was a literature study by reviewing various books, scholarly articles, research findings, and policy documents relevant to gadget use and early childhood development. The findings show that excessive and unsupervised gadget use can reduce children’s concentration, memory capacity, language development, and critical thinking skills; conversely, controlled gadget use with educational content and accompanied by parental guidance has the potential to provide benefits as a means of cognitive stimulation. The main factors driving excessive gadget use include uncontrolled duration of use, age-inappropriate content, and lack of parental supervision. The implications of this study underscore the importance of the role of parents and educators in regulating patterns and duration of gadget use so that the cognitive development of young children proceeds optimally, in a balanced manner, and in line with educational goals.

Population aging has intensified interest in technologies that support the health and quality of life of older adults. Virtual Reality (VR) has emerged as a promising tool for applications such as physical rehabilitation and cognitive stimulation; however, its adoption by this population is constrained by challenges related to usability, ergonomics, and comfort. This study explores these challenges and opportunities through a two-phase approach. First, related work is examined to contextualize existing VR applications designed for older adults. Second, two VR game prototypes are developed and evaluated through in-person sessions with older participants, combining qualitative observations and participant feedback. The results indicate that although VR experiences were perceived as enjoyable and engaging, usability issues limited system intuitiveness and independent use. These findings highlight the importance of inclusive and accessible design practices to support the effective use of VR technologies among older adults.

Despite longstanding efforts to design, implement, and study parenting interventions early in life to address disparities in school readiness, gaps remain related to understanding their long-term effects and pathways of influence on child development. Here we describe sustained impacts at child age 6 of the innovative, tiered birth to age 3 Smart Beginnings (SB) model. We performed a single-blind, 2-site randomized clinical trial of the SB model. SB integrates PlayReadVIP, a universal, pediatric primary care-based program, and Family Check-Up, a targeted secondary home-based parenting intervention. Mother-infant dyads (N = 403) were randomized at birth to standard pediatric care or the SB model. In line with SB's theory of change that supporting parents will promote their children's development, single and serial mediation pathways evaluated intervention effects of SB on age 6 child academic skills through parental cognitive stimulation at age 2 and child academic functioning at age 4. We found significant single and serially mediated indirect effects of SB on academic outcomes through parental cognitive stimulation in toddlerhood and preacademic skills in preschool. The total indirect pathways were positive and statistically significant for all academic outcomes at age 6, including receptive vocabulary (effect size [ES] = 0.04, P = .04), oral comprehension (ES = 0.05, P = .04), letter-word recognition (ES = 0.04, P = .04), phonemic decoding (ES = 0.04, P = .04), and applied problems (ES = 0.05, P = .04). Findings build on the demonstrated scalability of the SB model, support the cumulative process of academic functioning in childhood, and offer a promising model to address disparities early in life.

Knowledge about dementia risk influences preventive behaviours, yet has been primarily explored as risk factor awareness. This study investigated the understanding of dementia prevention by systematically assessing general dementia risk knowledge and participants' capacity to recognise specific evidence-based dementia risk mitigation strategies and identify common misconceptions about purported mitigation strategies. This cross-sectional study used the Knowledge of Dementia Risk Reduction survey instrument to assess dementia literacy. The multi-component instrument assesses general knowledge about dementia risk, recognition of mitigation strategies for risk factors and the ability to appraise specific common misconceptions. Items were generated from a literature review and expert consultation. The instrument was administered to participants of an Australian online public health cohort study into dementia risk self-management. Participants numbered 3334 and had a median age of 62 years. Most (72.5%) identified as female; 44.5% had a university education, and 49.1% had a family history of dementia. Most participants (79.5%) agreed that you can reduce your chances of developing dementia. The most recognised mitigation strategies included increased physical activity, social activity and cognitive stimulation, with one-quarter of participants unsure about the management of cholesterol and adoption of a Mediterranean diet. Scores for general dementia risk knowledge and recognition of modifiable risk reduction were midrange and moderately correlated with each other. Correct appraisal of common misconceptions; for example, that aluminium exposure is a risk factor, was poor; only 5.0% of participants scored a midrange score (6/12) or higher, and only 0.2% of participants correctly identified all misconception items. The study highlights the additional insights offered by simultaneously assessing multiple components of dementia risk literacy. Participants in the study demonstrated some knowledge of dementia risk and risk factor mitigation strategies, but had a poor appraisal of common misconceptions. Such insights can inform risk reduction messaging and enable more effective public health campaigns for future risk mitigation.

BACKGROUND: In patients who have undergone coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), it is relevant to develop cognitive rehabilitation programs to reduce cognitive deficits even in hospital settings. Evaluating the possibilities of cognitive training and testing the effectiveness of such techniques will facilitate their use in the clinic. The purpose of the study. To study changes in cognitive status in patients who underwent CABG in conditions of artificial circulation under the influence of multitasking cognitive training and the possibility of their use in the early postoperative period. AIM: To study changes in cognitive status in patients who underwent CABG in conditions of artificial circulation under the influence of multitasking cognitive training and the possibility of their use in the early postoperative period. METHODS: The study involved 25 patients: a group with standard postoperative follow-up (n=16) and a group that underwent a course of training using the cognitive stimulation program "Recovery" (n=9). Inclusion criteria were elective coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery in ischemic conditions, age 45-75 years, informed consent of patients, people with dementia, depression, acute cerebrovascular accidents, and a history of traumatic brain injuries were excluded. Cognitive training was conducted daily and consisted of two tasks: a complex visual-motor task and a verbal task. An extended neuropsychological evaluation of neurodynamics, memory, and attention was conducted twice: 2-3 days before surgery and 11-12 days after CABG. A group of healthy individuals of the same age (n = 30) were also included. RESULTS: The preoperative examination results revealed the presence of a moderate cognitive impairment syndrome in most patients. They had worse memory, attention and neurodynamics than healthy individuals of the same age. Patients who completed the training program showed a 20% decrease in attention errors (p=0.04) and a short-term visual memory memorized figures (p= 0.02). Early postoperative cognitive dysfunction was detected in 44.4% of patients with training and 75% without training (p=0,06). CONCLUSION: Patients who underwent the cognitive stimulation program "Recovery" in the early postoperative period of CABG showed less cognitive decline in the domains of attention and short-term memory. Additional studies on a larger sample of patients are needed for implementation in clinical practice.

Introduction and Purpose: Alzheimer’s disease is a developing public health concern with significant social and economic interference. Given the limited capability of current drug therapies, attention is shifting to the preventive strategies. The goal of this article is to review the evidence supporting multimodal lifestyle interventions—combining physical activity, dietary changes, and cognitive stimulation—as effective methods for reducing the risk and progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Materials and Methods: This narrative review draws upon recent clinical studies, meta-analyses, and guidelines related to non-pharmacological interventions for Alzheimer’s disease. Sources include peer-reviewed articles focusing on physical exercise, dietary patterns, nutrient supplementation, and their combined impact on cognitive health. Results: Evidence indicates that regular physical activity—especially aerobic and resistance training—supports memory, executive function, and cognitive performance, even in early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. Malnutrition is common in individuals with AD due to factors such as poor appetite, swallowing difficulties, and behavioral symptoms. Deficiencies in B vitamins, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids are frequently observed and linked to faster cognitive decline. Tailored nutritional interventions, including adequate protein and caloric intake, may help stabilize cognitive and functional outcomes. Conclusion: Multimodal lifestyle interventions—including regular physical activity, brain-healthy diets, and targeted nutritional support—offer a promising strategy for the prevention and management of Alzheimer’s disease. These approaches enhance cognitive function, address modifiable risk factors, and are most effective when implemented early and tailored to individual needs. Integrating such strategies into clinical care and public health policies could play a crucial role in reducing the future burden of Alzheimer’s disease.

Hypersensitivity to noise and intolerance to sudden, loud noises are clinical symptoms that have been frequently observed in recent years. Some of these patients suffer from mild forms of autism spectrum disorder and struggle to establish meaningful social relationships. In the worst cases, they may isolate themselves and limit their interaction with the world to computers at night and sleeping during the day. Scientific research shows that hyperacusis is found in 50% of individuals with autism spectrum disorder, compared to 3% of the general population, and that cases of autism spectrum disorder are sharply increasing among young people and adults throughout the Western world. This increase is linked precisely to the intensification of sensory, emotional, cognitive, and biological stimulation in contemporary society.

This research presents an innovative smart community interactive art therapy platform that integrates multimodal computer graphics with resilient artificial intelligence adaptation mechanisms to address the growing challenges of home-based elderly care. The platform employs a four-layered hierarchical architecture encompassing perception, network, platform, and application layers to deliver personalized therapeutic interventions. The system utilizes multimodal data fusion algorithms to process visual, auditory, and haptic inputs while implementing adaptive learning mechanisms that continuously optimize user experiences based on individual preferences and capabilities. Experimental validation demonstrates superior performance with response times averaging 387 ms under 100 concurrent users, therapeutic recommendation accuracy of 87.3%, and user satisfaction scores of 4.2/5.0 across multiple evaluation dimensions. The resilient adaptation mechanisms achieved 99.7% service availability and 34% improvement in CPU utilization compared to conventional systems. Long-term usage tracking revealed sustained engagement patterns with minimal dropout rates over 6-month evaluation periods. The platform successfully addresses key limitations of traditional elderly care models by providing comprehensive support that encompasses cognitive stimulation, emotional well-being, and social connection while maintaining cost-effectiveness and scalability for large-scale deployment in smart community environments.

According to the family stress model (FSM), economic stressors undermine optimal child development through negative impacts on parent psychological well-being and family relationships, which in turn disrupt positive parenting. However, few studies have examined the role of interparental conflict among these pathways and the resilience factors that buffer the FSM processes. Understanding risk and resilience is especially relevant for families in Flint, MI, for whom poverty resulting from structural racism and chronic disinvestment has coincided with public health crises. Using 199 families from low socioeconomic backgrounds in an ongoing parenting intervention in Flint, this study examined whether parent psychological distress and interparental conflict mediated the association between economic pressure at baseline (around birth) and cognitive stimulation at 9 months, and whether parenting self-efficacy and social support moderated the sequential mediation. Data were collected through parent interviews at both time points. We found that the negative association between economic pressure at baseline and cognitive stimulation at 9 months was sequentially mediated by parent psychological distress and interparental conflict. Furthermore, this negative sequential mediation was reduced and became nonsignificant when parents reported higher levels of parenting self-efficacy and social support. These findings suggest that improving interparental relationships in addition to parent mental health may promote positive parenting in at-risk two-parent families and that strength-based interventions are needed to reinforce parenting self-efficacy and facilitate parents' social networks and connections with the community to foster positive parenting. Programs should address these issues during infancy to build a strong foundation for long-term healthy development. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved).

BackgroundSocial isolation is a known risk factor for dementia, and addressing it may help delay cognitive decline. The Internet‐based Conversational Engagement Clinical Trial (I‐CONECT; www.i‐conect.org; ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02871921) is the latest in a series of NIH‐funded studies over the past 15 years, focusing on conversational interactions as a cognitive stimulator. Unlike prior studies, I‐CONECT specifically targeted socially isolated older adults with limited opportunities for conversation, expecting the greatest impact in this population. This presentation will overview the study, its conceptual framework, and recent findings following the publication of topline results in 2023. New findings highlight the intervention's clinical relevance, including time‐saved analysis and its impact on social behavior and speech characteristics.Methods186 socially isolated participants aged 75+ (MCI: N = 100, Normal Cognition: N = 86) were recruited from the community and randomized in I‐CONECT. The experimental group engaged in 30‐minute semi‐structured video chats with trained staff 4 times per week for 6 months (induction), followed by twice per week for an additional 6 months (maintenance). Both groups received a weekly 10‐minute check‐in phone call to monitor changes in health and social activities. Unique features of the trial included standardized yet natural conversations using stimulating picture prompts, staff training and user‐friendly devices.ResultsNew findings since the 2022 AAIC presentation include: (1) The top 30% of responders delayed cognitive decline by 6 months or more in global cognitive function based on individual treatment response (ITR) analyses, (2) Participants in the MCI experimental group were more likely to contact friends over time compared to the control group, suggesting that the I‐CONECT intervention could stimulate weekly social interactions among socially isolated older adults, potentially providing additional cognitive stimulation, (3) Digital twin modeling approaches confirmed the robustness of our efficacy using an alternative control group derived from an observational study, and (4) Changes in speech characteristics were observed in the experimental group.ConclusionsThese recent results provide further evidence of the positive impact of social interactions on cognition and daily functioning in socially isolated older adults. They reinforce previous findings and highlight the potential of internet‐based, conversation‐focused interventions to support cognitive health and improve quality of life.

BackgroundMild cognitive impairment (MCI) represents a transitional stage between normal cognitive aging and dementia, characterized by a discernible decline in cognitive function that does not substantially impede daily activities. It serves as a critical intervention point where early detection and lifestyle modifications can delay progression. Globally, dementia‐related costs may exceed US$2 trillion by 2030. In Singapore, around 10% of seniors have dementia, with costs projected to surpass S$1 billion by 2030. Neurowyzr's Digital Brain Function Screen (DBFS) identifies early MCI signs alongside modifiable lifestyle risk factors, offering a pathway for intervention.MethodDBFS is a medical grade digital cognitive screening tool that assesses cognitive function through tasks spanning four domains: attention, executive function, immediate memory, and working memory. Additionally, a lifestyle questionnaire captures data on physical activity, sleep, nutrition, alcohol intake, smoking, other medical conditions and medications, and brain stimulation. Over 2,000 individuals from routine health screenings in Singapore completed the DBFS, providing real‐world data. Statistical modeling identified key factors linked to MCI, distinguishing cognitively healthy individuals and those at high risk of developing MCI or dementia.ResultDBFS scores declined with increasing age, indicating age‐related cognitive decline (Figure 1). Diabetes was strongly linked to poorer cognitive performance, while smoking and daily sugar consumption (≥1 teaspoon) were significant MCI risk factors. In contrast, regular physical activity—especially cardiovascular and resistance training thrice weekly—was neuroprotective. Higher education (bachelor's degree or higher) provided added protection, particularly in older adults. Additionally, engagement in cognitively stimulating activities at work or leisure further reduced the likelihood of cognitive decline.ConclusionThese real‐world findings underscore the multifactorial nature of MCI in Singapore and highlight critical modifiable risk factors. The DBFS shows promise as a scalable tool for early detection and targeted prevention strategies—managing diabetes, reducing smoking, limiting sugar intake, and promoting regular exercise, educational attainment, and cognitive stimulation. Early identification and intervention may mitigate MCI risk and help reduce the overall economic burden of dementia.