Preprint · Feb 8, 2024
A Rapid Scoping Review on Operationalizing Cognitive and Social Activities in Research on Dementia Risk Reduction
By Bruinsma J, Roodbeen RTJ, Menting GGA et al.
Objectives: Engagement in cognitive and social activities may preserve cognitive abilities and protect against dementia. However, insight into how to adequately measure engagement in these activities is a necessary precursor of science. This study provides an initial exploration of (a) how cognitive and social activities are measured in research investigating protective activities against dementia, and (b) the extent to which preventive interventions promote activities that are operationalized in these measurements.Methods: A rapid scoping review was conducted on PubMed to identify relevant articles.Results: Across 58 studies, 38 had an observational design and predominantly used questionnaires to measure engagement in cognitive and social activities. A wide variety of items and themes were observed, including arts and crafts, social groups, exercise, games, outings, household tasks, education, music, multimedia use, reading, socializing, work or volunteering, and writing. There were considerable variations in item content, response scales, recall periods, and scoring methods. The 20 studies that reported on preventive interventions mainly focused on psychoeducation and (computerized) cognitive training, which do not fully align with the activities measured in questionnaires.Conclusion: Many researchers measure and promote cognitive and social activities but do this differently, leading to fragmented insights into which activities are protective against dementia. Clarifying the concept and identifying relevant aspects to measure would support the development of better measurements and interventions that effectively promote beneficial activities.