In an era where dementia and cognitive decline are on the rise, groundbreaking research offers hope. The Finnish Geriatric Intervention Study to Prevent Cognitive Impairment and Disability (FINGER) is a pioneering trial that demonstrates how multidomain lifestyle interventions can significantly improve brain health and prevent cognitive decline. Led by Professor Miia Kivipelto, the study is a collaboration among esteemed institutions, including Karolinska Institutet, the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, and several universities in Finland and Sweden. The landmark results were first published in the Lancet medical journal in 2015.
Methodology: A Robust Clinical Trial
The FINGER study stands out as a double-blind, randomized controlled trial, involving 1,260 participants aged 60-77. These individuals, though at an increased risk of dementia based on identified risk factors, showed no obvious memory problems. They were randomly divided into two groups: an intervention group and a control group. The intervention group underwent a two-year program of multidomain lifestyle interventions, while the control group received regular health advice.
Multimodal Lifestyle Interventions
Diet and Nutrition
Participants were educated and supported in following a healthy, balanced diet based on the Nordic Nutrition Recommendations. This approach emphasizes whole foods, rich in nutrients, and minimizes processed foods and sugars.
Physical Activity
Regular physical training was a key component, including cardio, strength, and balance training both in groups and individually. Physical activity not only boosts cardiovascular health but also promotes neurogenesis and cognitive function.
Cognitive Training
Cognitive stimulation and training were provided through online programs focusing on memory, processing speed, and other cognitive areas. These exercises are crucial in enhancing brain plasticity and cognitive reserve.
Social Activity
Social engagement was naturally integrated through group sessions and meetings, emphasizing the importance of social interaction in maintaining cognitive health.
Cardiovascular Health Monitoring
Regular monitoring of cardiovascular health metrics such as blood pressure, cholesterol, blood glucose, and obesity helped in reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, which are closely linked to cognitive decline.
Remarkable Results
The results of the FINGER study are compelling. Cognitive performance improved significantly more in the intervention group compared to the control group. Specifically, there was an 83% greater improvement in executive function, a 150% increase in psychomotor speed, and a 40% improvement in complex memory tasks in the intervention group. Additionally, participants in the control group faced a 30% greater risk of developing cognitive impairment after two years.
Long-term Benefits
Beyond cognitive improvements, the FINGER intervention program positively impacted participants’ mobility, day-to-day activities, and overall quality of life. The intervention group reported better health-related quality of life, and the risk of multimorbidity was reduced by 60%. Long-term follow-ups revealed fewer cerebrovascular events among participants who underwent the intervention, further emphasizing the program’s efficacy.
Mechanisms Behind the Success
The exact mechanisms behind the success of the FINGER model are still being studied. However, improved blood circulation in the brain, reduced inflammation, and decreased oxidative stress due to better cardiovascular health are considered key factors. The interventions also likely support brain resilience, strengthening cognitive reserve and compensating for nerve cell changes and damage.
Conclusion
The FINGER study highlights the profound impact that multidomain lifestyle interventions can have on preventing cognitive decline. By integrating healthy eating, physical activity, cognitive training, social engagement, and cardiovascular health monitoring, we can significantly improve our brain health. As research continues, these findings offer a promising blueprint for tackling cognitive impairment and enhancing the quality of life for the aging population.
For more insights into how lifestyle interventions can improve cognitive health, stay tuned to our blog and explore further research on this groundbreaking study.
References
- Ngandu, T., Kivipelto, M., et al. (2015). The Lancet.
- Solomon, A., et al. (2018).
- Kulmala, J., et al. (2019).
- Strandberg, T., et al. (2017).
- Marengoni, A., et al. (2018).
- Ngandu, T., et al. (2022).
- Lehtisalo, J., et al. (2022).
- Wimo, A., et al. (2022).
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