Abstract:

Background: Multidomain interventions show potential in reducing dementia risk factors and improving quality of life by promoting healthy habits. Understanding participants’ perceptions and satisfaction is essential for improving intervention quality and adherence. Evidence highlights the importance of social engagement in later life, as it contributes to reduced physical isolation, alleviation of depressive symptoms, and lower risk of cognitive decline. Methods: The sample consisted of a total of 43 older adults aged 60 to 80 years, who completed pre-test and post-test assessments including sociodemographic interviews, clinical scales, cognitive tests, and a physical evaluation. Participants were randomized into three groups: 1) Experimental group 1 (n=15), received combined cognitive and physical interventions, including CogniFit training, group workshops, and weekly walks; 2) Experimental group 2 (n=15), participated exclusively in walks; and 3) Active control group (n=13), attended monthly health-related informative sessions. After the four-month intervention period, participants completed satisfaction surveys prior to focus groups discussions. Three focus group discussion sessions were conducted, exploring expectations and satisfaction regarding the CogniFit platform, smartwatch use during walks, in-person workshops, perceived cognitive and physical benefits, incorporation of healthy habits into daily routines, willingness to recommend the program, satisfaction with content and staff support, and perceived social impact and future applicability. Results: Focus group findings revealed an overall positive perception of the intervention across all groups. Emerging themes identified included (1) motivational and social value of group activities, particularly in-person workshops and walks, (2) barriers with the use of the smartwatch during walks, (3) CogniFit platform as novel, appealing, and effective, and (4) implementing daily walks in the routine. Satisfaction surveys supported these findings, indicating high levels of satisfaction with program components, including among participants in the active control group. Conclusions: Satisfaction surveys and focus group feedback demonstrate a positive perception regarding the usefulness, relevance, and effectiveness of the interventions. These findings underscore the importance of incorporating qualitative, participant-centered evaluations when designing and implementing multimodal interventions for older adults.