Clinical Trials Detalhe

This research aims to evaluate the effect of cognitive stimulation (CS) on the functioning of the prefrontal cortex (PFC), seeking an analysis of both cerebral hemodynamics in neuroplasticity and aspects related to the initiation of neurodegenerative processes. The intervention presents an individual format and the participants are elderly without or with neurocognitive disorders (NCD). Concretely, to assess the effects of individual CS on global cognition, and mood, as well as to analyze neuronal activity with oxygenation, volume and blood flow in the brain, evaluating the impact of cognitive stimulation on brain hemodynamics. Participants in the intervention group receive two 45 min-session of CS per week for 12 weeks in addition to their treatment as usual. Participants in the control group will maintain their treatment as usual.

Dementia

Neurocognitive Disorders

Cognitive Impairment

Cognitive Dysfunction

Cognitive Decline

Cognition Disorders in Old Age

Inclusion Criteria: * Being 65 years of age or older. * Being able to communicate and understand. * Being a native Portuguese speaker. * Educational level equal to or higher than 4 years old. * Have given informed consent for the project, duly completed and signed, after prior information. * Have a score of 22 or more points in the MMSE. Exclusion Criteria: * Suffering from an acute or severe illness that prevent participation in the intervention sessions. * Severe sensory and physical limitations that prevent participation. * Low level of consciousness and minimal attention span. * Presence of severe neuropsychiatric symptoms (such as agitation, psychosis, severe depressive and anxiety symptoms, apathy), or presence of uncontrolled delirium that would prevent participation in the sessions. * History of seizures or cerebrovascular disease. * Movement disorders diagnosis. * Psychoactive substances consumption.