Internet-based conversational engagement randomized controlled clinical trial (I-CONECT) among socially isolated adults 75+ years old with normal cognition or MCI: topline results

We report topline results of this multi-site RCT (Internet-based conversational engagement clinical trial [I-CONECT]; NCT02871921).RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: The experimental group received cognitively stimulating semi-structured conversations with trained interviewers via internet/webcam four times per week for six months (induction) and twice per week for an additional six months (maintenance). The experimental and control groups both received weekly 10-minute telephone check-ins. Protocol modifications were required due to the COVID-19 pandemic.RESULTS: 186 participants were randomized. After the induction period, the experimental group had higher global cognitive test scores (Montreal Cognitive Assessment [primary outcome]; 1.75 points [p=0.03]. After induction, experimental group subjects with normal cognition had higher language-based executive function (semantic fluency test [secondary outcome]; 2.56 points [p=0.03]. At the end of the maintenance period, experimental group MCI subjects had higher encoding function (Craft Story immediate recall test [secondary outcome]; 2.19 points [p=0.04]. Measure of emotional well-being improved in both control and experimental groups. Resting-state functional MRI showed that the experimental group had increased connectivity within the dorsal attention network relative to the control group (p = 0.02), but the sample size was limited.DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS: Providing frequent stimulating conversational interactions via the inte...
Source: The Gerontologist - Category: Geriatrics Authors: Source Type: research