Influence of simulated functional task to improve executive function, functional balance and activities of daily living in elderly people with mild cognitive impairment: A one-arm interventional study

Abstract

Background: Elderly patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) have decline in executive functions, functional balance, and impact on the ability to perform activities of daily living (ADL). The simulated functional task (FcTSim) program may provide standard benefits on the cognitive function of elderly patients with MCI. Objective: This study aimed to find the effectiveness of FcTSim to improve executive functions, functional balance, and ADL in elderly patients with MCI. Study Design: A one-arm interventional study. Method: An interventional study was conducted on elderly patients with MCI and balance impairment. They were selected for the study on the basis of the Mini-Mental Status Examination score 18–23, Berg Balance Scale (BBS) score of <45 (indicate the greatest risk of falling), and age group between 65–85 years. FcTSim program was given for 4 weeks, a total of 12 sessions (3 sessions per week). Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination-Revised (ACE-R), BBS, and Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) scales were used as the outcome measures. Results: The mean posttest scores of ACE-R was 11.53 ± 3.62; P < 0.00; 95% confidence interval (CI): 9.52 to 13.54, BBS 8.80 ± 2.36; P < 0.00; 95% CI: 7.49 to 10.11, it shows significant difference and COPM performance 1.00 ± 0.84; P < 0.00; 95% CI: 0.53 to 1.46 satisfaction 1.53 ± 0.91; P < 0.00; 95% CI: 1.02 to 2.04. Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that after 4 weeks encompassing 12 sessions of FcTSim, the elderly patients with MCI showed improvement in their executive functions, functional balance, and ADL such as eating, bathing, dressing, and grooming.