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

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