Testing a Model of Knowledge and Lifestyle Variables Associated with Cognitive Health among Older Adults

This study uses an existing dataset to examine data for potential associations between program participation and increases in “brain-healthy” behaviors and improvements in cognitive outcomes among older adults. Program participation entailed eight one-hour educational sessions and use of the Dakim BrainFitness System for online cognitive training. The education component provided information on the relationship between the following lifestyle behaviors and cognitive health: physical activity, healthy eating, social engagement, cognitive engagement, and maintenance of mental health through stress reduction. It also included instruction on memory strategies. The study sample consisted of 118 adults, age 55 and older, from the Chicagoland area. Levels of baseline knowledge and behaviors related to cognitive health were compared to knowledge and behaviors immediately following program participation. After controlling for baseline level of each dependent variable assessed, analyses showed that program participation was associated with increases in four of the five lifestyle behaviors examined, the exception being stress reduction. In addition, program participation was associated with increases in category fluency and letter fluency; however, none of these associations were statistically significant.