Mentes ativas (active minds): effects of a remote cognitive stimulation program

With population aging, the prevalence of cognitive deficits increases, highlighting the importance of nonpharmacological interventions for promoting mental health in older adults. Objective: ) in cognitively healthy older adults. Methods: The initial sample included 56 participants enrolled in the USP 60+ program at the School of Arts, Sciences, and Humanities of the University of São Paulo. For the final analyses, 22 participants who completed at least 80% of the sessions over a six-month period were assessed. Assessments included the Geriatric Depression Scale, Geriatric Anxiety Inventory, Cognitive Function Instrument, and Satisfaction with Life Scale. Data were collected at baseline and post-intervention and analyzed using non-parametric statistical tests. Results: There was a significant reduction in perceived subjective cognitive decline (mean score from 4.07 to 3.07; p=0.005) and in depressive symptoms (3.55 to 2.32; p=0.046), as well as a decrease in anxiety symptoms (5.88 to 3.95) and slight improvement in life satisfaction (7.59 to 7.95), although not statistically significant (p=0.132). Significant correlations were found among greater perceived cognitive decline, both depressive and anxiety symptoms, and with lower life satisfaction. Conclusion: program may help promote cognitive and psychosocial improvements in older adults, reinforcing the role of cognitive interventions in promoting healthy aging.