Prevention Starts Here: Piloting My Healthy Brain in Massachusetts Councils on Aging
Massachusetts General Hospital
Summary
The investigators will evaluate a brain health programs in older adults with subjective cognitive decline. The primary aim of the study is to determine the credibility, expectancy, feasibility, acceptability, appropriateness, fidelity, and satisfaction of the program delivered in the senior centers.
Description
The investigators aim to promote brain health by reducing lifestyle risk factors for dementia in older adults with subjective cognitive decline (SCD). This study is a pilot trial of a mindfulness-based lifestyle programs. Eligible older adults include: age ≥ 50, self-reported worry about changes in memory or thinking, and self-reported interest in improving lifestyle behaviors. Participants complete 8 weekly 90-minute sessions delivered by a clinical psychologist or trainee. All participants will wear an activity watch to support and monitor lifestyle changes during the program. Each session w…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 50+ years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria: * Aged ≥ 50 * Subjective cognitive decline (SCD; e.g., forgetting information, getting lost, and repeating oneself) * Able to self-identify at least 1 modifiable lifestyle risk factors for dementia to change during the program (physically inactive, poor sleep, non-adherence to Mediterranean diet, alcohol use, tobacco use, socially isolated or lonely, mental inactivity) * Absence of significant cognitive impairment (assessed using Short Blessed Test71 ≤ 9) * Self-reported English proficiency/literacy * Ability and willingness to participate and complete all study-related ac…
Interventions
- BehavioralMy Healthy Brain
My Healthy Brain is an 8-week group program delivered via 90-minute meetings led by a clinical psychologist pr trainee. It provides education on the link between dementia and lifestyle factors, including poor exercise, sleep, diet/nutrition, mental and social stimulation, alcohol, and smoking. My Healthy Brain participants learn evidence-based mindfulness and behavior change skills to address common barriers to healthy habits, such as stress and setting achievable goals. My Healthy Brain participants wear an activity watch to monitor lifestyle changes during the program.
Location
- Massachusetts General HospitalBoston, Massachusetts