"GO" to move toward dementia-friendly communities: A pilot study

Background: To the creation of mutual aid relationships among people with cognitive decline is important in aging societies. This study aimed to develop and examine the feasibility of a GO Program in which older adults, with experience in playing GO, support the learning of GO by older adults with cognitive decline and other barriers to social participation, which in turn reduces social isolation and creates opportunities for older adults to use their role.

Methods: This single-arm intervention study was conducted in Tokyo, Japan. Introductory GO classes were held for 10 participants who had never played GO (beginners) and 10 participants who had (supporters) once a week for an hour, for a total of 12 sessions. Supporters and beginners were paired to solve problems and play games. We assessed the feasibility of the program and its effects on mental health social network, and cognitive function.

Results: Cognitive test scores were at the mild cognitive Impairment level for beginners as well as for supporters. Satisfaction with the program was high, with an overall class attendance rate of 99.1% and none leaving the program. No significant changes were observed over time for beginners in each measurement; however, there was a significant improvement in the Mini Mental State Examination-Japanese scores for supporters (p < .05).

Conclusions: The results suggest that this program could contribute to the creation of mutual aid relationships among older adults with cognitive decline; even if they have mildly declined cognitive function, they can still play an active role in society. Moreover, creating such opportunities may positively impact cognitive function.