Exploring and Evaluating the Impact of 'Refresh and Reconnect!'

Launched by DUKE-NUS GRADUATE MEDICAL SCHOOL · Jan 28, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The "Refresh and Reconnect!" trial is studying how a special program at the National Museum of Singapore can help improve the health and well-being of older adults who have mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or mild dementia. Over six weeks, participants will take part in guided art activities and museum tours. The goal is to see if these experiences can enhance their cognitive abilities, social connections, and overall mental health. Researchers will compare participants' health before and after the program and gather feedback through interviews and observations to understand what works best.

To be eligible for this study, participants should be aged 70 or older, have a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia, and score between 22 to 27 on a cognitive screening test called the MoCA, which helps assess their mental ability. They must also be able to participate in interviews on their own and agree to take part in the study. Those who join can expect a supportive environment where they can engage with art and heritage while potentially improving their quality of life. This research could lead to valuable insights for better support and care for individuals with cognitive impairment in Singapore.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Fulfils the programme recruitment criteria and registers for the programme through National Museum of Singapore's collaborating partners; AND
• • Provides consent for participation in the study personally; AND
• • Willing and able to participate in interviews independently, without proxy; AND
• • Scores between 22 to 27 on the MoCA (or 22 to 26 for participants with less than 10 years of education; or 22 to 25 for participants who are unable to provide information on the number of years of formal education completed). These thresholds follow the recommendation of MoCA use in determining mild cognitive impairment and mild dementia in Singapore and draw from studies concerning mental capacity and consent for persons living with cognitive impairment
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Whose cognitive impairment status cannot be confirmed by the administered screener; OR
• • Do not give consent to participate in the study; OR
• • Scores below 22 on the MoCA, or above 27 (or 26 for participants with less than 10 years of education; or 25 for participants who are unable to provide information on the number of years of formal education completed)