Memory Rehabilitation in Aging as a Need for Today’s Modern Societies: Designing and Determining the Effects of Memory-Boosting Mobile Application on the Cognitive Function of Aging with Cognitive Dysfunction

The rise in life expectancy and the resulting increase in the number of older adults raise concerns about the unique challenges that will inevitably arise during this stage of life. Alzheimer's disease is a progressive condition that, if untreated, progresses to more advanced stages. This study aimed to create and evaluate the impact of a memory-enhancing mobile app on the cognitive function of older adults with cognitive dysfunction. The study utilized a quasi-experimental design with a pretest–posttest control group. A total of 42 older adults with Alzheimer's disease were selected using cluster sampling from comprehensive urban health service centers in Larestan county, located in southwest Iran. The intervention group participated in a two-month memory-boosting training program, which included seven components such as repetition and practice. The mobile app was designed to be user-friendly and convenient. The data analysis was conducted using SPSS 25. The research findings showed that the experimental group, who received cognitive stimulation treatment with memory-boosting applications, demonstrated significant improvements in overall cognitive functions and abilities compared to the control group. These improvements were observed in various dimensions, including time and location awareness, recall, attention and calculation, recent memory, language functions, and spatial thinking (P < 0.05). There are no significant differences between demographic variables and cognitive function in the experiment group. Memory-boosting apps can assist older adults in enhancing their cognitive functions, which is crucial for preventing disease progression and promoting adherence to self-care recommendations. Further research is necessary to validate and explore additional impacts of game apps on this demographic.