Effects of Integrative Cognitive Function Improvement Program on Cognitive Function, Oral Health, and Mental Health in Older People: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Eun-Seo Jung, Yoon-Young Choi and Kyeong-Hee Lee ()
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Eun-Seo Jung: Department of Dental Hygiene, College of Bioecological Health, Shinhan University, Uijeongbu 11644, Korea
Yoon-Young Choi: Private Practice, Nohyeong 14-gil, Jeju 63083, Korea
Kyeong-Hee Lee: Department of Dental Hygiene, College of Bioecological Health, Shinhan University, Uijeongbu 11644, Korea

IJERPH, 2022, vol. 19, issue 21, 1-11

Abstract: We aimed to investigate the effects of an integrative cognitive function improvement program that combined existing cognitive, emotional, and physical therapies on cognitive function, oral health, and mental health in elder participants. Participants were classified into one of the following groups: cognitively normal (CN; n = 18), mild cognitive impairment (MCI; n = 17), and control ( n = 17). An integrative cognitive function improvement program was administered to the CN and MCI groups for six weeks. To measure cognitive function, electroencephalogram (EEG) and cerebral blood flow (CBF) were evaluated, and to measure oral health, the O’Leary index, Löe & Silness index, tongue coating, unstimulated saliva flow rate, and oral muscle strength were measured. To measure mental health status, mental health, happiness and social support were measured. The CN and MCI groups showed a significant change in EEG-based indices for awareness level and physical stress. Regarding oral health, the O’Leary and the Löe & Silness index score decreased significantly in the CN and MCI groups. Saliva flow rate increased significantly in the CN and MCI groups. In regards to mental health, the happiness score increased post-intervention in the CN and MCI groups. In conclusion, the integrative cognitive function improvement program was effective in improving cognitive function, oral health, and mental health of elder people.

Keywords: cognition; cerebral blood flow; electroencephalogram; mental health; older adults; oral health (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2022
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