Authors (including presenting author) :
Choi WY, Lam CH, Wong KY, Keung NY, Wong HC, Chin YM
Affiliation :
Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital
Introduction :
The lasting impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has caused many elderly to lose interest in going out and had reduced engagement in activities, resulting in social isolation, which is compounded by recent migrations of their children, leaving them feeling abandoned and disconnected. 63.0% of elderly with emigrant children were at high risk of social isolation and 49.6% of them showed signs of depression in 2023-2024 (Hong Kong Christian Service, 2024). It has been suggested that social isolation increases risks of depression and is inversely proportional to cognition (Duan et al., 2023). Responding to this alarming issue, a new active lifestyle program was developed to promote the well-being of elderly with mental disorders through social activities, physical exercises and cognitive-stimulating activities.
Objectives :
To evaluate the effectiveness of this new active lifestyle program in improving cognitive functions, mood, and overall well-being in elderly with mental disorders.
Methodology :
This 8-session program was delivered twice a week, including: 1) Psychoeducation on the importance of physical, social and cognitive activities; 2) Social activities and physical exercises; 3) Memory and compensatory strategies; and 4) HAGO prescription and paper-and-pencil tasks for cognitive stimulation. A booklet was designed for participants to facilitate the learning process.
Result & Outcome :
10 clients from CMDC and OT out-patients of PYNEH were recruited from Aug to Nov 2024. Pre- and post-assessments were conducted using various tools. The average Digit Forward Sequence Score and Span score increased from 7.4 to 7.8 and from 7.7 to 8 respectively. The average total score for verbal fluency tests improved from 36 to 39. The average score of Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-4) score decreased from 1.1 to 0.9. A patient satisfaction survey showed that 80% of participants were satisfied with the content of the programme and reported improvements in cognitive functions and social participation. From qualitative data gathered, participants commented that the programme increased their motivation and confidence in participating in other community social activities and strive for a more active lifestyle after the programme. This pilot active lifestyle program has demonstrated potential benefits in improving the overall well-being of elderly with mental disorders. Participants reported positive changes in cognitive functions, mood and social participation.
