Overview
With aging populations and increasing rates of dementia, there is a growing need for culturally adapted interventions. In Israel, older Arab adults with lower education levels are at higher risk for cognitive decline. This project tests whether a simple cognitive training program can help improve brain health in this group.
Project Details
This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of cognitive training in improving brain function among older Arab adults with low education levels. We will recruit 100 cognitively healthy Arab Israeli adults from two daycare centers and randomly assign them into two groups: an intervention group receiving 24 weeks of cognitive training and a control group continuing regular daycare activities. Cognitive function will be assessed using an Arabic version of the Tablet-Based Cognitive Assessment Tool (TabCAT) and the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) before and after the intervention. Additionally, surveys will be conducted to explore participants’ perceptions of brain health and dementia before the training. The data will be analyzed using statistical methods to determine if the intervention enhances cognitive abilities compared to the control group. The project’s findings will help shape future culturally tailored brain health interventions, potentially reducing dementia risk and improving the quality of life for older Arab adults. The results will be shared with policymakers, researchers, and community organizations to inform larger-scale initiatives.