Multi-Modal Cognitive Stimulation Program Improves Cognition and Quality of Life in Thai Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Randomized Controlled Trial

INTRODUCTION: Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a growing global health concern that increases dementia risk in older adults, including those in Thailand. Using an eight-session Multi-Modal Cognitive Stimulation Program (MCSP) is an effective non-pharmacological intervention for slowing cognitive decline and improving cognition and quality of life (QOL). METHOD: This randomized controlled trial examined the effects of an eight-session MCSP on cognition and QOL in Thai older adults with MCI. Sixty-six participants were randomized into intervention (n = 32) and control (n = 34) groups. Cognitive assessments included the Mini-Mental Statement Examination Thai version 2002, Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer's Disease, Color Trails Test, and Digit Span, alongside the QOL-AD. Principal component analysis was used to aggregate cognitive assessment scores. Demographic data were analyzed using chi-square and t tests, and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was employed for cognition and QOL outcomes. RESULTS: After the intervention, the MCSP group exhibited significantly higher cognitive and QOL scores than the control group. ANCOVA demonstrated that group, sex, age, education, and baseline scores significantly predicted changes in cognition and QOL outcomes. The intervention group showed significant improvements in overall cognition (F(1, 58) = 4.75, p = 0.033, ηp2 = 0.076) and QOL (F(1, 58) = 6.05, p = 0.017, ηp2 = 0.094). CONCLUSION: An eight-session MCSP significantly improves cognition and QOL in Thai older adults with MCI, as assessed by a comprehensive cognitive battery and the QOL-AD, compared to a control group.