Initiation and maintenance of behaviour change to support memory and brain health in older adults: A randomized controlled trial

The implementation of healthy lifestyle and memory behaviours has the potential to mitigate the impact of age-related memory changes on the lives of older adults. The objective of this study was to examine whether a 10-hour multi-component memory intervention improves the initiation and maintenance of targeted, adaptive behaviour changes. Sixty-seven cognitively-normal, community-dwelling older adults, age 50-91 (72% female) participated in a randomized controlled trial with outcomes assessed at baseline, post-intervention, and six-week follow-up. Participants were allocated to a five-week, in-person, facilitator-led group intervention (n = 34) versus treatment as usual (n = 33). The intervention was associated with significant changes in participant-reported primary outcomes, including increased initiation and maintenance of health-promoting lifestyle behaviours (personal health responsibility, stress management, physical activity, and nutrition) and use of evidence-based behavioural memory strategies in everyday situations. Individualized goals were attained in both the intervention and control conditions. Secondary outcomes replicated prior findings (increased knowledge and improved memory-related confidence, affect, and self-rated ability), but were null with respect to benefits on general health and well-being. Group interventions that target positive adaptation to age-related cognitive decline via behaviour change are a promising avenue to enhance the health and wellness of our aging population.