Effectiveness of individual cognitive stimulation on cognition in mild Alzheimer's disease: A multicenter RCT

ABSTRACT Background: Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is characterised by impairments across several neurocognitive domains, including memory and executive function. The study explored the effectiveness of a 3-month individual Cognitive Stimulation (iCS) program in older adults with mild AD. Methods: A multicenter randomised controlled trial was conducted with 62 Portuguese older adults with mild AD. Participants were randomly assigned to either iCS (n = 33; 53%) or treatment as usual (TAU, n = 29; 47%). Cognitive outcomes were assessed at baseline, post-intervention, and 12-week follow-up using standardised tests for global cognition, memory and executive function. Results: The iCS group showed a significant improvement in memory and executive function compared to the TAU group. The analysis of subscales revealed significant improvements in encoding and semantic memory (Memory Alteration Test) and free delayed recall (Free and Cued Selective Reminding Test). Adherence and engagement with the intervention were high. Conclusions: A 3-month iCS program showed preliminary benefits in specific cognitive domains (memory and executive function) in older adults with mild AD, warranting further research with larger samples and longer follow-up.