Effects of a Nature-Based Intervention on Cognitive Function in Older Adults With Mild Cognitive Impairment

초록

Objective Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) represents a high-risk stage for dementia, yet limited non-pharmacological interventions are accessible. Although nature-based interventions have potential cognitive benefits, empirical validation for MCI populations remains limited. This study aims to address this gap. Methods Fifty older adults with MCI were recruited from a psychiatric outpatient clinic and local dementia centers. The intervention group included 25 participants who received a four-session nature-based intervention over 4 weeks, while controls, matched for age and sex, received no intervention. Pre-and post-tests assessed cognitive, emotional, physiological, and physical functions. Results Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores demonstrated a significant time & times;group interaction [F(1,45)=10.226, p= 0.003]. The nature-based intervention group showed that MMSE scores increased significantly (t=-2.270, p=0.034). In contrast, the control group exhibited a significant decline (t=2.262, p=0.034). No significant time and group interactions were found for emotional, physiological, or physical outcomes. Conclusion This short-term, nature-based intervention yielded cognitive benefits in older adults with MCI, which supported its feasibility as an accessible, non-pharmacological intervention. Further longitudinal randomized controlled trials should confirm sustained effects across multiple domains.

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