The effects of a cognitive stimulation program on cognition and psychosocial variables in illiterate and low-educated older adults

• Grant number: 25/09489-0
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: February 01, 2026
• End date: January 31, 2029
• Field of knowledge: Humanities - Psychology - Cognitive Psychology
• Principal Investigator: Thaís Bento Lima da Silva
• Grantee: Thaís Bento Lima da Silva
• Host Institution: Escola de Artes, Ciências e Humanidades (EACH). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• City of the host institution: São Paulo
• Associated researchers: Beatriz Aparecida Ozello Gutierrez ; Gabriela dos Santos ; Henrique Salmazo da Silva ; Maria Antônia Antunes Fernandes ; Sabrina Aparecida da Silva ; Sonia Maria Dozzi Brucki
• Associated scholarship(s): 26/02797-3 - The effects of a cognitive stimulation program on cognition and psychosocial variables in illiterate and low-educated older adults., BP.IC; 26/01912-3 - Specialized technical support in statistics applied to conducting clinical trials with elderly people with low levels of education: structuring, monitoring, and data analysis, BP.TT

Abstract

Introduction: Dementia is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by a significant decline in cognitive functions, including memory, language, and problem-solving abilities. This condition affects a large portion of the older population, particularly those with low levels of education, and may lead to loss of independence and reduced quality of life. Cognitive stimulation programs are promising strategies to mitigate cognitive decline and enhance the quality of life for these vulnerable populations. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a multicomponent cognitive stimulation program in illiterate and low-educated older adults, examining its impact on cognition and psychosocial variables. Methods: A randomized controlled clinical trial will be conducted, involving illiterate and low-educated older adults. Participants will be divided into intervention and control groups. The intervention group will take part in a structured cognitive stimulation program. The program's effectiveness will be assessed using a battery of neuropsychological tests and psychosocial questionnaires administered before and after the intervention. Expected Results: It is expected that participants in the intervention group will show significant improvements in cognitive functions such as memory and attention, as well as enhanced mood, including reduced levels of stress and anxiety, compared to the control group. These findings would highlight the importance and effectiveness of cognitive interventions in promoting healthy aging and improving the quality of life for older adults with low levels of education. (AU)